China’s shipbuilding industry has recorded a major breakthrough in the LNG carrier segment in 2025, as Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding signed contracts for three 174,000 cubic metre LNG carriers with Bonny Gas Transport (BGT), the shipping arm of Nigeria LNG (NLNG). The deal marks a significant step forward in China–Africa maritime cooperation and signals renewed momentum for Chinese yards in the construction of large LNG carriers.
Strategic China–Africa Cooperation in LNG Shipping
Bonny Gas Transport supports NLNG, one of Africa’s largest LNG exporters with an annual production capacity exceeding 22 million tonnes per annum. The order represents a strong vote of confidence in Chinese shipbuilding capabilities and highlights deepening energy and maritime ties between China and Africa.
For Hudong-Zhonghua, the contract reinforces its position as a leading global LNG carrier builder at a time when demand for gas transportation remains strong amid the global energy transition. The vessels will support BGT’s long-term fleet modernisation strategy and strengthen the reliability of LNG supply chains linking Africa to global markets.
Advanced LNG Design and Manufacturing Capabilities
The three LNG carriers will be built based on Hudong-Zhonghua’s fifth-generation “Changheng” LNG carrier design, incorporating advanced energy-efficiency and low-carbon technologies. The vessels will be equipped with the NO96 Super+ containment system, enhancing safety, performance, and environmental compliance.
The Changheng platform has already secured 39 orders, creating significant scale advantages across engineering, procurement, and production. Supported by the shipyard’s expanding intelligent manufacturing facilities at Changxing Island, Hudong-Zhonghua aims to deliver the vessels with high efficiency, consistent quality, and reduced construction timelines.
This landmark contract with NLNG’s Bonny Gas Transport represents more than just a commercial success it signals China’s growing competitiveness in the high-value LNG carrier market. As Hudong-Zhonghua continues to scale up advanced designs and intelligent manufacturing, the deal strengthens global clean energy logistics while underscoring China’s re-emergence as a key player in large LNG carrier construction in 2025.
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Source – LinkedIN
