Ports and Shipping

Jiangnan Shipyard Clinches Contracts for 16 Newbuild Vessels in January

Jiangnan Shipyard has secured newbuilding contracts for a total of 16 vessels through three separate agreements finalized in the first half of January 2026, underlining strong global demand for gas-capable and dual-fuel ships. The orders span ammonia carriers, LNG carriers and large container vessels, according to statements released by the Chinese shipbuilder.

The first deal was signed on 5 January, when Jiangnan Shipyard entered into an agreement with Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS) to build two 90,000-cubic-metre old-Panamax very large ammonia carriers. These vessels are designed to transport ammonia, a fuel increasingly viewed as a key component of future low-carbon energy supply chains.

A second major contract came into force on 13 January involving Jiangnan Shipyard, China Shipbuilding Trading Co. (CSTC) and Cosco Shipping Lines. Under this agreement, the yard will construct 12 LNG dual-fuel container ships, each with a nominal capacity of 18,000 TEU. The vessels will strengthen Cosco’s fleet with modern, fuel-flexible tonnage aligned with tightening environmental regulations.

The third agreement was signed on 15 January, when Jiangnan Shipyard and CSTC concluded another contract with Eastern Pacific Shipping for the construction of two large LNG carriers, each offering a cargo capacity of 175,000 cubic metres.

Taken together, the three deals reflect sustained confidence in Jiangnan Shipyard’s ability to deliver advanced, environmentally efficient vessels across multiple shipping sectors. The shipbuilder said the contracts demonstrate market trust in its digital ship design capabilities, intelligent manufacturing systems, and focus on green, low-carbon shipbuilding solutions.

Jiangnan Shipyard added that it intends to continue close cooperation with shipowners and energy companies as the global maritime industry accelerates its transition toward cleaner propulsion technologies and alternative fuels.