by Lloyd's List

9 August (Lloyd's List) - ZHOUSHAN Changhong International Shipyard said it has signed a contract with Mediterranean Shipping Co to build a dozen LNG dual-fuel 19,000 teu containerships.

Financial and delivery details were not disclosed. But the fresh tonnage is expected to be delivered in 2027-2028 given the builder's current slot availability.

According to Clarksons estimates, newbuilding prices are around $270m for LNG-capable containerships with a capacity of 24,000 teu and $200m for those with a capacity of 16,000 teu.

This order is expected to help MSC further cement its position as the world's largest container carrier.

Alphaliner data shows the Geneva-based company currently has 99 ships totalling 1.2m teu on order, second to none of its competitors. The next largest carrier Maersk recently announced plans for 800,000 teu of orders.

Zhoushan Changhong said the latest order followed previous two deals with MSC - 10 units of 11,500 teu and 10 units of 10,300 teu LNG dual-fuel containerships.

The announcement came as shipbrokers reported MSC is in the process of placing firm orders for a new series of “mega containerships” at China’s Jiangsu New Hantong Ship Heavy Industry.

Up to 10 units of 21,000 teu LNG dual-fuel ships were said to be under discussion for delivery in 2027 and 2028.

The same owner is also reportedly discussing a new series of 11,000 teu LNG dual-fuel ships with Chinese builder Penglai Jinglu, as well as 12,000 teu ships with Jiangsu Rongsheng Heavy Industries.