Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation has signed contracts for six 8,000 TEU-class methanol dual-fuel-ready containerships with Nihon Shipyard Co., Ltd., Imabari Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., and Shoei Kisen Kaisha, Ltd., the company said in a news release.
The signing ceremony took place on October 28 at the Imabari International Hotel, attended by Yang Ming Chairman Dr. Chuck Tsai and Nihon Shipyard Director Mr. Yukito Higaki.
The agreement covers the purchase of three containerships and the newbuilding of another three, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2028.
The 8,000 TEU-class vessels are the first in Yang Ming’s fleet to incorporate methanol dual-fuel-ready specifications and will replace 5,500 TEU-class ships that have been in operation for over two decades.
The new ships feature energy-efficient designs aimed at improving operational flexibility and competitiveness while reducing carbon intensity in line with international environmental standards.
The vessels’ main engines are designed for future conversion to green methanol fuel, and the propulsion systems will include a high-efficiency propeller, energy-saving rudder, and rudder fin to enhance performance.
Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation is a publicly listed Taiwanese container shipping company founded in 1972. It operates a global fleet providing maritime transportation and logistics services, with routes connecting major ports in Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Nihon Shipyard Co., Ltd. is a Japanese shipbuilding joint venture between Imabari Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. and Japan Marine United Corporation. The company specializes in the design, construction, and sale of commercial vessels, including bulk carriers, tankers, and container ships.
Imabari Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. is one of Japan’s largest shipbuilders, engaged in ship design, construction, and repair. It operates several shipyards across Japan and manages diverse projects in commercial vessel construction and marine engineering.
Shoei Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. is a Japanese ship-owning and management company affiliated with Imabari Shipbuilding Group. It provides ship leasing and chartering services to domestic and international shipping operators.
