China marked a major milestone in sustainable shipping with the maiden voyage of the world’s first 9,300 CEU methanol dual-fuel roll-on/roll-off vessel “Gang Rong.”
Built by China Merchants Industry and managed by China Merchants RoRo, the vessel departed from Tianjin Port after successfully completing China’s first methanol bunkering operation of this vessel type. The launch signals a significant step in the maritime industry’s transition toward cleaner, greener shipping.
A New Era of Green Shipping
The “Gang Rong” is among the largest pure car and truck carriers (PCTCs) in the world, measuring 219.9 meters in length and 37.7 meters in beam, with capacity for 9,300 vehicles. By using methanol fuel, the vessel drastically cuts harmful emissions—50% less nitrogen oxides, 97% less sulfur oxides, 90% fewer particulates, and 5% lower greenhouse gases. These reductions enable compliance with the International Maritime Organization’s stringent Tier III standards, positioning China at the forefront of sustainable shipping technology.
The maiden voyage carried nearly 7,000 vehicles and large equipment bound for Europe via the Suez Canal and Mediterranean routes. To support this landmark journey, Tianjin Port Group worked closely with authorities to ensure smooth operations, including customized pilotage plans, dedicated green service channels, and storage for 3,500 new energy vehicles.
Strategic Significance for China’s Shipping Industry
The launch highlights Tianjin Port Group’s commitment to ecological priorities and green development. Its ro-ro terminals already operate with zero carbon emissions, making the port a strategic hub for China’s clean energy shipping efforts.
Wang Yongxin, General Manager of China Merchants Energy Shipping, emphasized that this achievement integrates Tianjin’s industrial strengths with the global green fuel supply chain. He also revealed that five more methanol dual-fuel RoRo vessels are under construction, scheduled for delivery between late 2025 and 2026. With Tianjin as a key export base, this move strengthens China’s role in shaping the future of sustainable maritime transport.
The successful maiden voyage of the “Gang Rong” is more than just a technical achievement it symbolizes China’s growing leadership in green shipping and clean fuel adoption. By combining advanced vessel design, port infrastructure, and coordinated logistics, China is taking decisive steps to reduce the carbon footprint of its maritime sector. As additional methanol-fueled vessels join the fleet in the coming years, this initiative could reshape the global car carrier industry and contribute significantly to the world’s sustainability goals.
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Source: WORLD PORT ORG.
