Despite potential headwinds from increased US tariffs, Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), the world’s largest container shipping company, continues its aggressive fleet expansion by placing significant orders for LNG dual-fuel container ships with various Chinese shipyards. This robust orderbook now surpasses the entire current fleet size of Ocean Network Express (ONE), the world’s sixth-largest shipping company, underscoring MSC’s unwavering demand for new tonnage.
LNG Dual-Fuel Container Ships
Hengli Heavy Industries has confirmed an order from MSC for two 22,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel container ships, with delivery anticipated in 2029. These vessels represent some of the largest container ships globally, boasting exceptionally high loading capacities and advanced intelligent management systems.
These two newly ordered ships are follow-up vessels to a previous batch of ultra-large container ships that Hengli Heavy Industries is already constructing for MSC. Combined with the six identical 22,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel container ships ordered in April this year, the total number of vessels of this type co-built by MSC and Hengli Heavy Industries now stands at eight. Each vessel is estimated to cost approximately US$220 million, bringing the total value for these eight new vessels to approximately US$1.76 billion.
Changhong International Awarded Two 21,700 TEU LNG Container Ships
Following an announcement in February this year regarding an order for 4+2+2 (firm plus options) 22,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel container ships from MSC, Changhong International has received an additional order for two 21,700 TEU LNG dual-fuel container ships, also equipped with LNG fuel systems. These vessels are expected to be delivered in 2029. It remains unclear whether this latest order constitutes follow-on vessels from the previous contract.
Since 2023, MSC and Changhong International have signed contracts for approximately 40 container ships, ranging in size from 10,300 TEU to 22,000 TEU, with delivery dates extending as far as 2029. This extensive collaboration has established Changhong International as MSC’s largest shipbuilding partner globally.
China Merchants Industry Shipyards Secures Deal
In June this year, it was rumored that MSC had placed an order with shipyards owned by China Merchants Industry for 3+3 (firm plus options) 22,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel container ships. Each of these vessels is estimated to cost between US 206 million and US 210 million, with the potential total order value exceeding US$1.2 billion if all options are exercised.
The initial three firm vessels are slated for construction by CMHI Haimen Shipyard, with deliveries expected to commence in 2027. The subsequent three optional vessels are planned to be constructed by China Merchants Industry Qingdao Shipyard, with their deliveries also expected to begin in 2027, following standard industry practice for optional orders.
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Source: iMarine
