Nantong CIMC Sinopacific Offshore & Engineering (CIMC SOE) has signed a construction contract with a European shipowner for a 6,000-cbm LNG bunker vessel, the Chinese shipbuilder has announced.

According to CIMC SOE, the vessel will be deployed to provide LNG bunkering services at European ports, supporting what it describes as the green transition of European shipping.

"This latest contract further consolidates the company's leading position in the global small-to-medium LNG bunker vessel niche, widening its competitive edge in the sector," CIMC SOE stated, adding: "The company continues to expand into both domestic and international high-end markets. New orders are being secured with strong momentum, and the company's market development and order acquisition capabilities have been steadily improving."

In an evaluation of the global shipping market, CIMC SOE observed: "The green and low-carbon transition has become an irreversible industry trend. Green shipping policies are being progressively implemented in ports across various countries, while the pace of upgrading conventional fuel vessels and replacing them with clean energy alternatives continues to accelerate. This has driven sustained surges in demand for LNG carriers and LNG bunker vessels, with overall industry sentiment remaining robust."

As regards its future plans, the shipbuilder explained: "Moving forward, CIMC SOE will maintain its focus on the green shipping development track, deepening its presence in the global high-end clean energy vessel market while continuously enriching its green vessel product portfolio. At the same time, the company will further strengthen its overseas market footprint, deepen collaboration with quality shipowners worldwide, and contribute to the global green transition of shipping through high-quality offshore engineering equipment."