Cosco Shipping Holdings has selected Jiangnan Shipyard for the construction of 12 new container ships, further advancing its long-term fleet expansion and decarbonisation strategy. The two parties have entered into shipbuilding contracts covering 18,000 teu LNG dual-fuel container vessels, each priced at approximately RMB 1.4 billion (around $200 million).
Cosco Shipping Holdings said the transaction supports the group’s efforts to steadily increase fleet capacity, achieve long-term and balanced development, and further consolidate its industrial position, in line with its global development strategy for the container shipping business.
The 18,000 teu LNG dual-fuel container ships belong to the “Kun” (KUN-18N) series, independently developed and designed by Jiangnan Shipyard. Using LNG as the primary fuel, the vessels feature high efficiency, energy-saving performance and enhanced environmental credentials. All key performance indicators are said to reach advanced domestic standards, supporting Cosco’s plans to reduce the carbon footprint of its fleet over future operating cycles.
Delivery of the new buildings is scheduled between 2028 and 2029. Upon handover, the vessels are planned for deployment on east–west trade routes, where they are expected to enhance service quality, optimise cost structures and strengthen Cosco Shipping Holdings’ competitiveness in its core markets.
Jiangnan Shipyard has an established relationship with Cosco Shipping Group, having previously built and delivered 12 container ships of 5,100 teu, eight of 4,700 teu, and six ultra-large 21,000 teu vessels for the group.
