OOCL has ordered twelve 13,600 TEU LNG dual-fuel container vessels, marking a major step in its transition toward lower-carbon shipping.
The company signed shipbuilding contracts with Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding on 29 April 2026. The order was formally announced during a ceremony in Shanghai.
First LNG-powered vessels for OOCL
The new ships will feature dual-fuel engines capable of running on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and conventional marine fuels.
Once delivered, they will become the first LNG-powered vessels in OOCL’s fleet.
The investment follows the company’s evaluation of:
- tightening environmental regulations
- alternative fuel technologies
- global LNG bunkering availability
Expanding capacity and flexibility
OOCL says the newbuilds will strengthen fleet flexibility and support long-term growth. The additional capacity will help the carrier expand in:
- emerging markets
- regional trades
- third-country routes
The company also aims to improve global capacity allocation and better meet customer demand.
Supporting decarbonisation goals
CEO Tao Weidong said the order reflects OOCL’s commitment to sustainable shipping and energy transition.
The move aligns with broader industry efforts to reduce emissions while maintaining operational efficiency and network reliability.
