EPS taps Chinese yard for 12+6 LNG dual-fuel boxships, with CMA CGM charter deal
Fujian Mawei Secures Major Eco-Friendly Vessel Order
Fujian Mawei Shipbuilding has announced a significant contract with Singapore’s Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS) for the construction of twelve eco-friendly 1,800 TEU container vessels, with an option for six additional units. Each vessel is expected to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), marking a substantial step towards greener shipping solutions. The total value of the contract could reach approximately $675 million if the option for the extra vessels is exercised.
Details of the Contract and Future Plans
According to Greek shipbroker Intermodal, the contract for the twelve dual-fuel container ships is estimated at $37.5 million per vessel. Once completed, these ships will be chartered by CMA CGM, a prominent player in maritime transport that has previously partnered with EPS. The specific delivery dates for these new vessels have not yet been disclosed, but their construction represents a significant investment in sustainable shipping technology.
Eastern Pacific Shipping currently operates a diverse fleet of over 300 vessels, including bulk carriers, container ships, car carriers, tankers, and gas carriers, with a total deadweight tonnage exceeding 22 million. This positions EPS as one of the largest privately-owned ship management companies globally. In addition to the recent container vessel order, EPS has also commissioned up to four LNG-fueled Suezmax tankers from Hengli Heavy Industry, with deliveries scheduled for 2028.
Fujian Mawei Shipbuilding, recognized as the first vessel construction enterprise in China, is also set to deliver at least six 5,500 CEU car carriers to EPS by 2028. Furthermore, the shipbuilder plans to hand over a minimum of four 37,600-ton product and chemical tankers by the end of 2027. This ongoing collaboration between EPS and Fujian Mawei highlights a growing trend towards eco-friendly maritime solutions in the shipping industry.
