Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) is set to enhance its extensive order book with a significant newbuilding agreement for ten mega-sized liquid natural gas (LNG) dual-fuelled container ships, valued at approximately $2.15 billion.
The development comes as MSC continues to expand its fleet amid a surge in demand for container shipping.
Sources from the shipbuilding industry indicate that MSC has signed a letter of intent with China’s Hengli Heavy Industry for the construction of these vessels, each boasting a capacity of 21 000 TEU.
A shipbuilding broker has estimated that the cost per vessel will be around $215 million, with deliveries expected to commence in 2027.
This latest order is part of a broader trend within the container shipping sector, where major lines are racing to secure newbuild slots in response to increasing global demand and capacity constraints.
MSC's recent activity reflects a robust investment strategy, having already added approximately 400 000 TEU to its fleet this year alone, raising its share of the operated fleet to nearly 20%, the highest in its history.
The new ships will be designed with advanced energy-saving technologies and are expected to comply with stringent environmental regulations.
This aligns with MSC's ongoing commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions in maritime transport.
The company has also been linked to additional orders for LNG dual-fuelled vessels, further solidifying its position as a leader in eco-friendly shipping solutions.
As the competition heats up among shipping lines, MSC's proactive approach to fleet expansion underscores its ambition to maintain and enhance its market dominance in the ever-evolving logistics landscape.
