Samsung Heavy Industries Ningbo shipyard in China has won a newbuilding order from Copenhagen-based Maersk Tankers to deliver nine 49,940 dwt medium-range product tankers at a cost of $300m.
The tankers’ flag states have not been determined yet and upon delivery they will be used for transporting refined products such as gasoline and diesel.
Commenting on the order, the shipping company was quoted by Reuters as saying: “The investment is a clear indication of Maersk Tankers commitment to remain at the very top of the product tanker industry.”
The vessels, which are expected to join the Maersk Tankers fleet during 2017 and 2018, will be designed to minimise environmental footprint.
Maersk Tankers vice-president and business development head Claus Gronborg said: “The vessels will support our taking lead strategy in the product segment and maintain our strong focus on cost effectiveness.
“The renewal of our fleet will help us to stay environmentally efficient, competitive and better equipped to meet our customer demands.”
In 2014, Maersk Tankers placed an order for eight tankers from the SungDong shipyard in South Korea which are due to be delivered within two years.
Maersk Tankers, with more than 100 vessels consisting of 80 owned and 20 chartered ships, is said to be one of the world’s largest operator of product tankers.
