Port MoU to promote energy prospects with Japan

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Image credit: Western Australian Government

Pilbara Ports Authority (PPA) and Port of Himeji have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which aims to boost energy trade potentials between Western Australia (WA) and Japan.

The MoU will foster collaboration and knowledge exchange between the two ports on renewable energy and net zero carbon emission efforts.

The Port of Himeji, located in western Japan, has extensive trading links with WA, importing LNG, iron ore, oil, and salt from Pilbara ports.

Premier Mark McGowan is on a trade mission in Japan as part of the WA Government’s mission to drive investment in the State’s future sectors.

Premier McGowan said WA’s ports are vital to the State’s export sectors and will play an essential role as WA embraces new low-carbon businesses and possibilities.

“The Pilbara has enormous growth potential in renewable hydrogen, ammonia and critical minerals – and this initiative today will help us to work with our Japanese trading partners to drive local jobs in the region,” Premier McGowan stated.

While in Japan, a PPA team will visit the Harima coastline area to learn more about its carbon-neutral port concept.

The MoU enhances the Sister State relationship that WA and Hyogo Prefecture established in 1981.

“The McGowan Government is committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050, with PPA well positioned to provide renewable energy exports to not only Australia, but across the world,” Ports Minister Rita Saffioti said.

Minister Saffioti stated that with the Port of Himeji being one of the leading importers of LNG from PPA ports, an opportunity to investigate port infrastructure and efforts to enhance decarbonisation was recognised.

“I look forward to seeing the collaboration and sharing of knowledge between the ports as we continue the transition to green energy,” Minister Saffioti added.