This report introduces the trend analysis of automated container terminals in the world and proposes some general considerations to decision making for planning; building or operating automated container terminals in Japan vis-à-vis types of automated facilities. This report further advances current knowledge on automated container terminals in the world by introducing market trends of automation technologies, strategies of corporations and social background that have influences on gaining in popularity to the world market. The advantages, challenges and solutions regarding automated terminals in this report will contribute the implementation of automation technologies currently available on the market to the needs of the national/local government and the terminal operators in Japan.
The trend analysis is based on the research data which is collected by the author from relevant international sources like taking interviews with the Industry Stalwarts, Terminal Operators, Port Authorities, ets.

Key Words: Port, Automated container terminal, Cargo-Handling, Trend analysis, Supplier, Oligopoly, De facto standard, De facto step, Launch customer, Labor, Skill up