Yang Ming signs for three Japanese newbuilds

Taiwanese shipping line Yang Ming Marine Transport has struck a deal with Japanese owner Shoei Kisen for three 8,000 teu methanol dual-fuel-ready containership newbuilds.

The world’s 10th and Taiwan’s second-largest liner operator is buying the trio currently under construction at Imabari Shipbuilding, with delivery set in 2028 and 2029.

The transaction is valued between $339m and $360m, Yang Ming said in a stock exchange filing.

The move follows late last year’s announcement that the company would bring in up to 13 newbuildings between 8,000 teu and 15,000 teu to replace its over-20-year-old 5,500 teu to 6,500 teu series.

“The acquisition of the three 8,000 teu vessels, currently under construction, marks the first phase of the plan. The remaining portion will be carried out in accordance with internal procurement procedures to ensure mid- to long-term fleet stability and maintain service quality,” the company said.

Prior to the latest deal, Yang Ming was listed with nearly 100 ships on the water, 59 of which are owned, and five 15,500 teu newbuilds delivering in 2026. The company has been gradually expanding its fleet with modern secondhand neo-panamax tonnage but had not signed for newbuildings since May 2023.