Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM) will provide technical management for the world’s first ammonia bunkering vessel, following a contract signed by Japanese trading company ITOCHU Corporation in June for its construction.
The vessel, with a capacity of 5,000 cbm, is scheduled for delivery in 2027 and will operate in Singapore.
“This is a significant milestone in our ongoing collaboration with ITOCHU,” said Nick Topham, Managing Director of BSM Germany.
“Since 2022, BSM Germany has actively participated in ITOCHU working groups to support the development of a global ammonia supply chain infrastructure. We have contributed extensive experience in both carrying ammonia as a cargo and in cryogenic bunkering.”
Ammonia is seen as a key alternative fuel for maritime decarbonisation, with tank-to-wake emissions potentially cutting CO₂-equivalent emissions by up to 90% compared with fossil-based marine engines.
BSM has been preparing for ammonia-fuelled shipping for several years, developing operational procedures and training to address the fuel’s challenges.
Ammonia-related courses are already in place at BSM’s Maritime Training Centres, and an ammonia bunkering simulator will be introduced at the MTC in Kochi in Q2 2026 to further support seafarer readiness.
