Orient Overseas Container Line Ltd. (OOCL) has ordered twelve 13,600 TEU class LNG dual-fuel container vessels under shipbuilding contracts signed on 29 April 2026, according to OOCL.
The agreement with Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding (Group) Co., Ltd. will introduce LNG-capable tonnage into the OOCL fleet for the first time, marking the company’s entry into dual-fuel propulsion.
Each vessel will be equipped with main engines capable of operating on LNG and conventional fuels, reflecting the company’s assessment of environmental regulations, alternative fuel pathways and supply feasibility.
Chief executive Tao Weidong said the order supports the company’s approach to fleet diversification and operational flexibility while advancing its low-carbon transition.
The additional capacity is intended to support deployment in emerging, regional and third-country markets, optimize global allocation and meet long-term transport demand.
A signing ceremony was held in Shanghai on 30 April 2026 following the contract conclusion a day earlier.
Orient Overseas Container Line Limited (OOCLL) and OOCL (Europe) Limited operate under the OOCL trade name as wholly owned subsidiaries of Orient Overseas (International) Limited. The group is headquartered in Hong Kong and provides international container transportation and logistics services through a global network of offices and liner routes.
Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding (Group) Co., Ltd. is a shipbuilding enterprise within the China State Shipbuilding Corporation system, focused on the construction of large commercial vessels including container ships and LNG carriers.
