Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 3, Belgian shipowner Ebe has placed its first shipbuilding order in China, marking its return to the large bulker segment after nearly ten years. The order includes two firm and one optional 210,000 dwt ammonia-ready newcastlemax bulk carriers to be built at Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding. Delivery of the two firm vessels is expected in the first half of 2029.

Led by Basile Aloy, Ebe stated that the vessels will be constructed with the highest ammonia-ready notation, positioning the company for the maritime industry’s transition toward low-carbon fuels. Financial details of the contract with the CSSC-affiliated shipyard were not disclosed. The company said: “The vessels will future-proof our fleet and prepare us for the path our industry will inevitably embark upon.”

The 210,000 dwt design for the new ships was developed by the China Ship Design & Research Center (CSDC) and complies with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) Phase III requirements. Each vessel will measure approximately 300 meters in length and 50 meters in beam and will feature a pre-engineered design suitable for ammonia fuel.

Ebe’s decision to build in China follows its growing engagement with Chinese shipyards and technology providers. The company’s latest order aligns with global efforts to develop vessels capable of operating on cleaner fuels while maintaining high operational efficiency. The ammonia-ready configuration is expected to provide long-term flexibility for the company as alternative marine fuels become commercially viable.

Earlier in 2025, Ebe made headlines by acquiring a 2020-built newcastlemax previously owned by Norway’s 2020 Bulkers, marking its first purchase of a Chinese-built vessel. That acquisition was also Ebe’s first move into the large bulker classes since 2016, when it acquired a capesize vessel built by Japan’s Imabari Shipbuilding.

The latest order at Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding highlights Ebe’s renewed focus on expanding its fleet capacity and adopting future-oriented designs that meet evolving international standards. The company’s commitment to modernizing its fleet reflects a strategic approach to maintaining competitiveness in a sector undergoing rapid technological and environmental change.

Ebe’s collaboration with CSDC and CSSC demonstrates confidence in China’s advanced shipbuilding capabilities and the country’s growing influence in the construction of environmentally adaptable vessels. Upon delivery, the new ships are expected to enhance Ebe’s operational efficiency and strengthen its position in the global dry bulk market.

By investing in ammonia-ready newcastlemax bulk carriers, Ebe aims to secure long-term fleet sustainability and contribute to the maritime industry’s transition toward cleaner energy solutions. The company’s latest order marks a milestone in its development strategy and reinforces its role in advancing low-emission shipping technologies.