Orient Overseas Container Line has ordered twelve 13,600 TEU class LNG dual-fuel containerships, marking its first LNG-powered vessels, reports the American Journal of Commerce.

The contracts were signed with Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding on April 29, with a ceremony held in Shanghai the following day. The ships will be fitted with dual-fuel engines capable of running on LNG and conventional fuel.

OOCL stated that the order reflects a strategic decision made after assessing regulatory trends, new energy technologies, and fuel supply feasibility. The vessels will support the company's energy transition and sustainability goals.

CEO Tao Weidong emphasized that the new ships demonstrate OOCL's commitment to the green transition while ensuring fleet diversification. He added that the capacity increase will strengthen deployment in emerging and regional markets.

The company noted that the newbuildings will optimize global capacity allocation and promote balanced development, enabling OOCL to meet diverse long-term customer needs more effectively.