MSC returns to Zhoushan Changhong for 12 dual-fuel container ships
The Chinese shipyard Zhoushan Changhong International has inked construction contract for twelve 19,000 teu LNG dual-fuel box ships with MSC.
On 8 August, Zhoushan Changhong has completed the keel laying for the 3rd and 4th 11,500 teu LNG dual-fuel container ships being built for MSC.
The vessels’ LNG-fuelled and ammonia-ready propulsion systems are designed for the ships to serve routes in central Europe or between China and America.
“Signing of the new order further enhances Zhoushan Changhong’s production capacity of large-size containerships and the innovation on green ship products,” said Zhoushan Changhong shipyard.
The new orders add to a sizeable orderbook for the world’s largest container line. MSC has 1.2 million teu of capacity on order equivalent to 20% of existing fleet according to analyst Alphaliner. The line currently commands a 19.8% share of all container ship capacity operated globally.
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The unexpected sharp improvement in container shipping markets this year driven by diversions via the Cape of Good Hope to avoid Houthi attacks in the Red Sea has sparked another round of newbuilding orders.