Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL) has signed contracts with Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding for twelve 13,600 TEU LNG dual-fuel container vessels, marking its first LNG-powered ships, reported London's Logistics Manager.

The contracts were signed on April 29, followed by a ceremony in Shanghai. The Hong Kong-based carrier stated that the ships will be delivered between late 2028 and early 2030, adding the first LNG-powered units to its global fleet.

The new vessels will feature main engines capable of running on LNG and conventional marine fuel. OOCL mentioned that the decision followed an internal review of tightening environmental regulations, new energy pathways, and bunkering availability across major trade corridors.

CEO Tao Weidong expressed that the order demonstrates OOCL's commitment to the green transition and sustainable development while ensuring fleet diversification. He added that the new ships will support deployment across emerging and regional trade lanes, optimizing global network allocation.

The 13,600 TEU design provides operational flexibility, allowing access to ports and canals unsuitable for ultra-large container vessels above 20,000 TEU. The order adds more than 163,000 TEU to OOCL's forward book, complementing its pipeline of 24,000 TEU methanol dual-fuel ships.

As a subsidiary of COSCO Shipping Holdings, OOCL's expansion strengthens the group's global scale. The company remains the world's fourth-largest container carrier, with the new order reinforcing its competitive position in fleet capacity and alternative fuel adoption.