BJA Friendship Committee: Hanami festival in the Japanese Garden of Hasselt
Saturday 28 March 2026 Japanese Garden in Hasselt

The Belgium-Japan Association & Chamber of Commerce is pleased to invite you to an exclusive company visit to Nippon Express Belgium, offering a unique behind-the-scenes insight into air cargo logistics and airport operations.
Nippon Express is a global logistics provider delivering integrated supply chain solutions across air, ocean, rail, distribution, and logistics. With a strong presence at Brussels Airport, they play a key role in connecting international markets through efficient, secure and innovative logistics services. During this visit, participants will gain insight into Nippon Express’ operations through a dedicated presentation, testimonial and guided warehouse tour.
The visit will continue airside with a Brussels Airport Company (BAC) presentation, providing a comprehensive overview of airport operations and the air cargo ecosystem. Participants will also have the rare opportunity to witness cargo operations on the tarmac, offering first-hand exposure to aircraft handling and airside processes.
Join us for this exclusive visit to explore the dynamics of air cargo logistics, discover how collaboration between logistics providers and airport stakeholders drives efficiency, and connect with fellow members during a networking session.
We look forward to welcoming you!
| 13:00 | Registration |
|---|---|
| 13:30 | Welcome words by Kurt Leuridan, CEO Tokai Optecs & BJA Investment Committee Chair |
| 13:35 | Openings words by Michael Kamm, Managing Director, Nippon Express Belgium |
| 13:40 | Presentation of Nippon Express and testimonial: |
| Company overview and logistics activities by Raf Van Espen, General Manager ACD – Air Cargo Department | |
| Business insights and client perspective by Kevin Bogaerts, Country Sales Manager | |
| 14:00 | Guided warehouse visit |
| 15:00 | Overview of Brussels Airport and aircargo operations by Pieter April, Cargo Business & Network |
| Development Manager, Brussels Airport | |
| 15:45 | Transfer to the airport and security checks |
| 16:15 | Witnessing aircraft handling and airside procedures on the tarmac |
| 17:15 | Transfer back and networking drinks |
| 18:30 | Event adjourns |
Nippon Express Belgium, Bedrijvenzone Machelen Cargo B717, 1830 Machelen
BJA company members: 30 €
(This event is exclusively for BJA company members)
Please make your reservation latest by 8 April 2026, and note that it may be closed before once it is full.
This event is highly limited in number of participants, therefore it is limited to one representative per company.
Registrations are made automatically upon completion of the online form, on a first come, first served basis.
Please kindly inform the BJA office (info@bja.be) as soon as possible if you need to cancel your registration.
Cancellations are accepted until 17 April 2026. After this date, the fees will be charged and will not be refunded.