Wedoany.com Report-Sept. 17, On September 16, Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation, a shipping company based in Taiwan, signed a shipbuilding contract with Hanwha Ocean of South Korea. The agreement covers the construction of seven 16,000 TEU dual-fuel container ships, each with a precise capacity of 15,880 TEUs. These units will be the first in Taiwan designed as LNG dual-fuel vessels with ammonia fuel-ready (AFR) specifications.

The AFR notation was approved by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), confirming readiness for future ammonia conversion. Once completed, the ships are scheduled for delivery between 2028 and 2029. According to Yang Ming, this design will enable the fleet to adapt to international environmental standards while supporting the company’s carbon reduction objectives set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

The vessels will initially operate on liquefied natural gas (LNG), reducing carbon dioxide emissions by about 20%. With the option to convert to ammonia dual-fuel, emissions could potentially fall by up to 61%. This flexibility aligns with Yang Ming’s long-term plan to reach carbon neutrality.

In addition, the new series will be equipped with what is described as “the world’s first” type B-LNG fuel tank with a 1.0 bar design pressure. The solution, jointly developed by Hanwha Ocean and ABS, is expected to enhance both safety and efficiency during LNG operations compared to the traditional 0.7 bar design. It will also support compliance with upcoming shore power regulations, contributing to a cleaner energy transition.

The company noted that this development follows a consistent strategy to expand its fleet with environmentally friendly vessels. Earlier this year, in July, Yang Ming placed an order with Hanwha Ocean for another set of seven container ships of similar size and specifications. Furthermore, in December last year, the company booked thirteen 8,000–15,000 TEU vessels as part of its fleet renewal and replacement program.

Looking ahead, Yang Ming is also preparing to receive five 15,500 TEU LNG dual-fuel container ships, scheduled for delivery starting in 2026. These ongoing efforts reflect the company’s commitment to strengthening its fleet with advanced, fuel-efficient ships while addressing the global push for lower emissions in maritime transport.

With these initiatives, Yang Ming positions itself as a forward-looking operator in the container shipping sector, investing in vessels designed to balance efficiency, safety, and compliance with future environmental regulations. The partnership with Hanwha Ocean and classification support from ABS further underlines the importance of technological innovation in shaping the future of international shipping.