MSC signs contract to build 10 new 21,000 TEU containerships at Hengli Heavy

Source: MSC

Mediterranean Shipping Co (MSC) – the world’s largest container shipping line, headquartered in Switzerland – has signed a contract for a series of 10 LNG dual-fuelled containerships with a capacity of 21,000 TEU, scheduled for delivery in 2027.

While no official value has been placed on the agreement, industry trends suggest the contract could exceed $2.5 billion. This deal builds upon a strategic cooperation framework agreement signed between the two parties in August, covering a wide range of areas, including newbuilds, engine manufacturing, ship repairs, and vessel retrofitting.

Under the leadership of CEO Soren Toft, MSC operates a fleet exceeding 6 million TEU, commanding a 20% share of the global operated container fleet. The world's largest container line has placed several major orders at Chinese shipyards this summer. Before this latest deal, MSC's massive orderbook included approximately 130 ships, which, according to Alphaliner data, is projected to expand the fleet by an additional 1.8 million TEU in the coming years.

In related news on containership newbuildings, brokers report that Germany’s Hapag Lloyd is preparing to place an order for a series of LNG dual-fuel vessels with capacities of 9,000 TEU and 17,000 TEU at Chinese shipyards, with a letter of intent possibly being signed in the fourth quarter of this year. Meanwhile, an unnamed Greek owner is in talks to order 16,000 TEU newbuilds in South Korea, with deliveries scheduled for 2027.

As for Hengli Heavy Industry, the fast-growing shipyard, formerly known as STX Dalian, secured its first containership order with this MSC deal. In addition, the yard has reserved four newbuild slots for VLCCs for the Hengli Group—the second supertanker order from its parent company—with deliveries set for 2026 and 2027.

Source: Phaata.com (via Splash247)

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