Japan Marine United Corporation (JMU), a leading Japanese shipbuilding company, operates the Ariake Shipyard located in Nagasu, Kumamoto Prefecture. This facility is renowned for constructing large-scale vessels, including Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs), which are essential for global oil transportation.
In November 2023, JMU's Ariake Shipyard secured a significant contract from Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK), a major Japanese shipping company, for the construction of two 300,000 DWT VLCCs. These vessels are scheduled for delivery in 2026 and represent the first VLCC orders placed with a Japanese shipyard that year.
This contract is notable given the limited number of VLCC orders in the global shipbuilding market at the time, with only a few new orders placed worldwide. The global order book for VLCCs was slightly more than 20 ships, indicating a cautious approach by shipping companies amid market uncertainties.
The Ariake Shipyard has a history of delivering large-scale vessels. In February 2021, despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the shipyard completed and delivered the "Pertamina Pride," a VLCC with a capacity of 2 million barrels, to PT Pertamina International Shipping (PIS).
The recent order from NYK underscores JMU's strong position in the shipbuilding industry and its ability to secure significant contracts. The construction of these VLCCs is expected to contribute to the renewal and expansion of NYK's fleet, enhancing its capacity to transport crude oil efficiently across global routes.
In addition to VLCCs, JMU's Ariake Shipyard is involved in innovative projects aimed at environmental sustainability. In January 2024, a consortium including JMU signed contracts to build the world's first ammonia-fueled medium gas carrier, a 40,000 m³ vessel scheduled for delivery in November 2026. This project reflects the industry's shift towards alternative fuels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
In summary, Japan Marine United Corporation's Ariake Shipyard continues to play a pivotal role in constructing large-scale and technologically advanced vessels. The recent VLCC orders from NYK and the development of ammonia-fueled carriers highlight the shipyard's commitment to meeting the evolving demands of the maritime industry and contributing to global efforts towards sustainable shipping.
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