K Line has filed a lawsuit against Singapore-based APL Logistics (APLL), seeking compensation for damages arising from APLL employees’ “acts of disseminating false information relating to K Line.”
In a statement, the Japanese shipping line noted that a lawsuit had been filed in the Tokyo District Court in response to several emails sent by APLL personnel “strongly recommending” that clients terminate bookings on K Line and shift to other carriers because of a potential bankruptcy.
“K Line has decided to file a lawsuit, in order to restore its social confidence and clarify the social responsibility of a company such as APLL,” the statement added. “Based on its experience and achievements accumulated over many years since the commencement of service, K Line will continue to respond to customer demand and provide reliable and high-quality services.”
After the collapse of Hanjin in August, K Line was forced to address emails circulating damaging rumours about the company’s financial stability. The emails were found to have originated from APLL employees and the company admitted that its employees were found to be the source.
In a statement at that time, the company wrote, “APL Logistics Group states unreservedly that it is not our practice to comment on the financial position of other market participants; neither in a negative nor positive aspect.
“The APL Logistics Group therefore does not endorse the comments made by these employees.”
