Thailand’s Regional Container Lines (RCL) has ordered two 9,200 TEU neo-panamax containerships worth approximately $213 million, with deliveries scheduled for 2030 and 2031. The shipyard has not been disclosed.
The order forms part of a 12-vessel newbuilding programme contracted in the third quarter, comprising four 1,900 TEU feeders, six 3,100 TEU ships and the two larger vessels. The expansion builds on earlier orders placed with Chinese shipbuilder CSSC Huangpu Wenchong and South Korea’s HD Hyundai Heavy Industries.
RCL’s fleet expansion comes amid improving freight rates, with its average rate rising to $624 per TEU in Q3 2026 from $552 in the previous quarter, despite a 4.1% decline in cargo volumes.