Plans are in the works to increase the number of tractor trailers carrying both Japanese and Korean license plates from eight to between 16 and 20 within fiscal 2015. Based on a bilateral agreement reached in July 2012, a trial of this so-called “double number” system, which allows cargo-laden trucks to drive freely in both countries without reloading at ferry ports, began in 2013. Currently limited to trucks carrying car parts between Pusan, Korea and Nissan Motor Kyushu’s plant in Kanda Town, the trial has proven beneficial in streamlining the procurement of parts from Korea despite a strong won. According to Nissan Motor Kyushu, the number of days it takes to deliver on orders from Korean customers has been reduced from 40 to six, and the number of days it takes to procure parts from Korea has been slashed from 25 to three. Source: Nishinippon Shimbun 6/13
