Yangzijiang Maritime Development is significantly expanding its fleet after securing firm contracts for 24 new vessels at several Chinese shipyards, with deliveries scheduled between 2028 and 2030.
The latest programme spans five vessel types and reflects the company’s strategy of increasing its exposure to different segments of the global shipping market.
The orders include six bulk carriers of approximately 64,500 dwt, scheduled for delivery in 2029 and 2030, as well as six 49,800 dwt product-oil and chemical tankers due to enter the fleet between 2028 and 2030.
The programme also covers four stainless-steel chemical tankers of around 28,000 dwt, with deliveries planned for 2028-2029, and a further four stainless-steel chemical tankers of 29,000 dwt, also scheduled for delivery during 2028-2029.
Rounding out the orderbook are four 319,000 dwt very large crude carriers (VLCCs), with deliveries expected in 2029-2030.
In addition to the 24 firm orders, Yangzijiang Maritime has secured options for another 16 vessels, giving the company further room to respond to market developments and capture potential upside.
Taking the new firm contracts and outstanding options into account, the company’s overall newbuilding portfolio will reach 98 vessels. This total includes seven completed newbuildings, one of which has already been delivered to a buyer, along with 75 vessels currently under construction under firm orders.
Commenting on the expansion, Yangzijiang Maritime CEO Ren Yuanlin said the company, together with its long-standing equity co-investment partners, continues to identify investment opportunities across global maritime markets.
He described the 24-vessel commitment as a reflection of the group’s constructive outlook for the sector. The company is focusing on proven, environmentally compliant vessel designs capable of meeting changing industry requirements, particularly those driven by emissions regulations and the wider transition towards lower-carbon shipping.
