Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), the world’s largest container line, is ramping up its fleet expansion strategy by placing new orders for ultra-large vessels.
The latest move involves a deal with China Merchants Heavy Industries Haimen for six 22,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel container ships, valued at over US$1.2 billion.
MSC’s $1.2 Billion Bet on Green Mega Ships
The new order, valued at over $1.2 billion, reflects MSC’s commitment to both scaling up capacity and greening its fleet. Each ship will cost more than $200 million and be powered by LNG dual-fuel systems, a cleaner alternative to conventional marine fuels. This also marks the first time the CMHI Haimen shipyard will construct vessels of this ultra-large size.
Strategic Order from Chinese Shipyard
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Each ship costs over US$200 million, with deliveries starting in 2027.
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Marks the first ultra-large container ship order for CMHI Haimen.
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Boosts MSC’s fleet of 20,000+ TEU ships (including options) to 52.
Political Context and Company Stance
Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and past U.S. pressure on China, MSC continues to invest heavily in Chinese shipbuilding.
MSC’s Senior VP Marie-Caroline Laurent stated at Nor-Shipping 2025:
“U.S. policy changes will not be an obstacle to ordering more ships in China.”
Broader Expansion Strategy
In 2025 alone, MSC and its subsidiaries have placed multiple orders with Zhoushan Changhong, Guangzhou Shipyard International, and Hengli Heavy Industries, covering both container ships and ro-ro vessels.
With this bold order, MSC signals unwavering confidence in Chinese shipbuilding and reinforces its long-term vision to lead the global liner industry with a modern, energy-efficient fleet powered by LNG dual-fuel technology.
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Source: i MARINE
