Norwegian tonnage provider MPC Container Ships (MPCC) has placed an order in China for two next-generation 1,600 TEU eco-efficient container vessels, further advancing its fleet renewal and decarbonisation strategy.
The contracts were signed with Fujian Mawei Shipyard, with delivery scheduled for the second half of 2027. The total investment amounts to USD 66 million, and MPCC has secured options for additional vessels, allowing future expansion based on market conditions.
Each vessel comes with an eight-year time charter plus a two-year optional extension from an undisclosed global liner operator. Over the firm charter period, the ships are expected to generate USD 92 million in revenue and contribute approximately USD 54 million in EBITDA, significantly strengthening MPCC’s long-term earnings visibility.
Optimised for Northern Europe Trade
The new buildings will feature:
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Fuel-efficient, environmentally compliant design
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Refined hull form and shallow draft for restricted channels
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High manoeuvrability for port efficiency
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Energy-saving systems to reduce emissions and fuel consumption
MPCC said the design is tailored for Northern Europe shortsea operations, where environmental regulations and shallow waterways require specialised tonnage.
Strengthening ESG and Financial Performance
According to MPCC, the order marks another step toward modernising its fleet and reducing regulatory exposure. The project will be financed with a balanced mix of equity and debt, maintaining a flexible and prudent capital structure. The vessels are expected to be accretive to both EPS and DPS once delivered.
“We are pleased to mark another step in the transformation of our fleet,” said Co-CEO Constantin Baack. “This transaction is part of our long-term fleet renewal strategy, designed to generate sustainable value through modernization and optimization.”
Baack added that the company remains well-positioned to act on market opportunities while keeping a strong balance sheet.
Market Outlook Remains Favourable
MPCC continues to view supply fundamentals as attractive in its core feeder segments. Baack highlighted that:
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Only 6% of the fleet is expected to be replaced in the next 2–3 years
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24% of existing vessels are over 20 years old
This dynamic supports higher demand for modern, fuel-efficient ships like those being ordered.
Part of Broader Expansion
Earlier this year, MPCC also ordered four 4,500 TEU dual-fuel-ready containerships from Taizhou Sanfu Ship Engineering, with deliveries also beginning in the second half of 2027.
With this latest order, MPCC continues to solidify its position as a leading provider of modern feeder containerships, aligned with both market demand and decarbonisation goals.
