MSC, Zhonggu, and SITC Ramp Up Newbuilding Orders Across Multiple Size Segments

Container shipping lines are continuing to expand their previously announced fleet development programs by signing more newbuilding orders, covering a diverse range of vessel size segments.

MSC: Green Ambition with Dual-Fuel Vessels

Leading this expansion is the world's largest carrier – MSC. The carrier has ordered an additional 8 LNG dual-fuel container vessels with a capacity of approximately 11,500 TEU at Penglai Zhongbai Jinglu Shipyard.

This latest order follows a previous contract for 8 vessels signed in September 2024, bringing the total in this series at the yard to 16. As planned, all newly signed vessels are scheduled for delivery in 2029.

Zhonggu Logistics: Bolstering the Fleet

In the mid-sized segment, Zhonggu Logistics has also expanded its orderbook by finalizing 2 additional 6,000 TEU vessels, adding to previously reported orders.

These additional vessels will be built by Jinling Jiangsu, priced at $83.5 million each. The expected delivery time is slated for 2028.

SITC: Boosting Intra-Asia Capacity

Meanwhile, the intra-Asia niche "king" – SITC – has decided to exercise options to order 2 additional 2,700 TEU container vessels at Huanghai Shipbuilding.

These vessels are priced at $38.2 million each. This option exercise follows an initial order of 4 vessels in August 2025, bringing the total number of ships in this series to 8. Delivery schedules are expected to run from late 2027 to March 2029.

These latest contracts highlight the continuous trend of investment by container lines in fleet rejuvenation and capacity growth, spanning from large and mid-sized segments to regional vessels.

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Source: Phaata.com (According to Container-News)

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