Akzo Nobel's International Paint business has officially commenced full business operations in Japan. After more than 25 years of indirect involvement in Japan, the company staged an inauguration ceremony in Tokyo to formally announce the creation of International Paint Japan.

International Paint will supply its full range of newbuilding, drydocking and seastores products and services to both local customers and foreign flag vessels. All products will be supplied from the company's central warehouse near Kobe, or from regional depots. In addition to servicing newbuilding and repair yards direct, delivery of seastores products to owners' vessels can be made to 82 locations throughout Japan, according to the company.

As the latest addition to the International Paint family, International Paint Japan K.K. was established as a legal entity on April 5, 2004.