Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) is making waves yet again, expanding its colossal newbuild program with an order for ten more ultra-large container ships. This bold move further solidifies MSC’s position as the leader in fleet expansion, with its orderbook now surpassing the entire active fleet of Ocean Network Express (ONE), the world’s sixth-largest container carrier.
The latest contracts include two 22,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel vessels to be constructed at Hengli Heavy Industry in Dalian, China, with delivery slated for 2029.
Doubling Down on LNG Dual-Fuel Technology
In a parallel agreement, MSC has commissioned two 21,700 TEU LNG-ready ships from Zhoushan Changhong International Shipyard, also set for completion in 2029.
The largest slice of this order spree comes from China Merchants Heavy Industry (CMHI) in Jiangsu, where MSC has locked in three 21,000 TEU LNG-capable vessels, with an option for three more. The first trio is expected to hit the water in 2028, with the optional ships likely to follow based on MSC’s track record.
A Fleet Like No Other
While pricing details remain under wraps, industry insiders estimate each LNG-ready vessel could carry a price tag of around $200 million. These new orders bring MSC’s construction pipeline to a staggering 130 vessels, representing nearly 2.2 million TEU in capacity. Meanwhile, its operational fleet is closing in on the 7 million TEU mark.
This latest investment underscores MSC’s forward-thinking strategy, embracing LNG as a transitional fuel while paving the way for greener, more sustainable shipping solutions.
©MaritimeBell