South Korean shipping firm HMM has placed a major newbuilding order worth around USD 2.9 billion, marking a significant step in expanding its modern and sustainable fleet.
The order covers twelve 13,000 TEU LNG dual-fuelled container ships and two Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs).
The container ships will be built by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and Hanwha Ocean in South Korea.
All twelve will feature dual-fuel engines capable of running on LNG, viewed as one of the most practical lower-emission fuels available today.
With emissions regulations from the IMO and EU growing increasingly stringent, LNG continues to dominate alternative-fuel vessel orders. Clarksons Research data shows that nearly 50% of all newbuilds ordered last year were alternative-fuel capable, with over 70% using LNG.
By adding these vessels to its existing lineup of methanol- and LNG-powered ships, HMM aims to further strengthen its position in sustainable shipping. The two VLCCs will also enhance and diversify its bulk fleet portfolio.
The order forms part of HMM’s 2030 mid- to long-term strategy to secure a more flexible, future-ready fleet amid evolving market and regulatory pressures.
