The South China Morning Post reports that Jiangnan Shipyard is moving ahead with plans for the world’s first thorium-powered container vessel. The shipyard is designing a 25,000-container ship and expects construction to begin in about 10 years.
A Clear Push Toward Nuclear Maritime Technology
Jiangnan’s leadership explained that the company wants to build new shipyards for nuclear-powered vessels. The plan marks a major shift, and it supports China’s broader push for advanced maritime technology. The parent group also aims to expand into cruise ships, deep-sea drilling ships and nuclear-powered vessels. It hopes this move will help the company climb higher in the global value chain.
Thorium Reactor at the Center of the Design
The upcoming vessel will run on a thorium-based molten salt reactor. It can generate 200 megawatts and operate for 40 years. This reactor is one of six fourth-generation systems recognised internationally.
These nuclear-powered merchant ships could change long-range shipping. They offer zero emissions, long sailing endurance, lower fuel costs and faster speeds. However, approval remains unclear. No government agency has taken the lead on nuclear-powered ship licensing, so progress depends on regulatory clarity.
China’s Shipbuilding Trends Provide Important Context
China controlled 65 per cent of global shipbuilding orders in the first three quarters of 2025. Yet the overall volume fell sharply due to geopolitical tensions. As a result, new orders dropped from the previous year.
Even with this decline, China continues to develop new-energy vessels. One major technology company said it can build a battery-powered ocean vessel within three years. Because of this, the industry is steadily shifting toward cleaner propulsion and smarter systems. The parent group also wants to use more artificial intelligence and advanced energy technologies in its future ships.
Ongoing Projects Highlight Strong Momentum
The group is building a new cruise ship that will be delivered next year. It also completed a deep-ocean drilling ship in late 2024. That vessel can handle extreme wind conditions and drill to great depths.
Jiangnan has a long history in shipbuilding and continues to expand its capabilities. Many of the company’s new ideas appeared at the Marintec exhibition in Shanghai. The event covered a large space and welcomed 2,200 exhibitors. It showcased models of next-generation vessels and cutting-edge maritime systems.
A Possible Turning Point for Global Shipping
Jiangnan’s thorium-powered design remains in early development. Even so, it points to a major shift in shipping innovation, maritime safety and new-energy vessel design. If this ship reaches the water, it may help shape future discussions on clean propulsion and emerging IMO regulations.
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Source: South China Morning Post
