Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) has reached basic agreements with local firms Imabari Shipbuilding and Namura Shipbuilding regarding the formation of new alliances in the commercial shipbuilding business.

The company is also pursuing discussions toward creartng a similar alliance with another Japanese company, Oshima Shipbuilding.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

MHI aims to obtain sustained growth via the new deals by establishing complementary and synergy-generating alliances that place emphasis on mutual collaboration.

The partnership is also aimed at boosting competitiveness in the global marketplace for all partners involved.

MHI said in a statement: “The newly completed basic agreements cover a variety of core issues, including development of new ship designs and innovative technologies, sharing of designs and workforce, standardisation of engineering tools and fitting equipment, and flexible application of each partner’s construction capabilities.

"The newly completed basic agreements cover a variety of core issues, including development of new ship designs and innovative technologies, and flexible application of each partner’s construction capabilities."

“It is also expected that separate contracts will be concluded between MHI and each partner, stipulating how the alliance will be specifically applied to actual business operations.”

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

MHI is further looking to improve business competitiveness around its core engineering strengths through the new agreements, particularly in the areas of energy-saving and environmental technology.

The company also aims to further boost the presence of Japanese firms in the global shipbuilding industry.

MHI currently provides various engineering, electrical equipment, and electronics solutions for different markets.

Ship Technology Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Ship Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
From automated chartering invoices to EU ETS and CII management, Ankeri Solutions’ maritime SaaS platform has earned three Ship Technology Excellence Awards for 2025. See how Ankeri is helping shipowners and charterers boost efficiency, cut emissions, and collaborate better across complex global fleets.

Discover the Impact