Can a container ship sail cleaner without compromising performance?
Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation is betting on it — with three new dual-fuel vessels ready to turn green ambition into ocean-going action.
In its latest push for greener, more efficient shipping, Taiwanese carrier Yang Ming has signed on for three 8,000 TEU methanol dual-fuel-ready container vessels from Japanese ship lessor Shoei Kisen Kaisha. The vessels, currently being built by Imabari Shipbuilding, are expected to join Yang Ming’s fleet between 2028 and 2029.
This investment marks a key moment in the company’s fleet renewal programme — and a strong signal of its commitment to future-proofing operations against environmental regulations and rising fuel costs.
Fleet Modernisation Meets Fuel Flexibility
These aren’t just your average box ships. The newbuilds are equipped with energy-efficient main engines, optimised hull designs, and are fully methanol dual-fuel ready. That means they’ll be able to operate on both traditional marine fuel and green methanol — positioning Yang Ming ahead of regulatory trends and decarbonisation targets.
The deal is part of a larger plan to add up to 13 new vessels in the 8,000–15,000 TEU range, strengthening the backbone of Yang Ming’s mid-size fleet segment and enhancing route flexibility across its global network.
Why Methanol?
Methanol is emerging as one of the most promising alternative fuels for the shipping industry. It offers:
- Lower greenhouse gas emissions (up to 60–80% with green methanol)
- Easier onboard handling compared to LNG
- Compatibility with existing fuel systems (with retrofitting)
By preparing its ships for this future fuel, Yang Ming is not only meeting IMO 2050 emissions goals — it’s aiming to beat them.
Data Description
- Number of Ships Ordered: 3
- Capacity: 8,000 TEU each
- Fuel Type: Methanol dual-fuel ready
- Shipbuilder: Imabari Shipbuilding (Japan)
- Owner/Leasor: Shoei Kisen Kaisha
- Delivery Schedule: 2028–2029
- Yang Ming’s Fleet Expansion Target: Up to 13 ships (8,000–15,000 TEU class)
Industry Context
Yang Ming’s move comes amid an industry-wide surge in methanol-capable vessel orders. Competitors like Maersk and CMA CGM have also embraced methanol, each placing significant orders over the past two years. As regulations tighten and customers demand cleaner logistics, methanol is becoming a strategic must-have in global fleet planning.
“This investment represents a decisive step towards a more sustainable shipping future. Dual-fuel flexibility allows us to stay competitive while accelerating our environmental ambitions.”
— Yang Ming Spokesperson
As global shipping accelerates towards a low-carbon future, decisions like these will separate the innovators from the imitators. Yang Ming is staking its position on the green side of the line. The only question now: Who’s next?
