ASP Begins Construction of Two 49,500 DWT Methanol Dual-Fuel Tankers
Guangzhou, China – Asia Pacific Shipping (ASP) has marked an important milestone in its fleet development programme with the Steel-Cutting Ceremony for two new 49,500 DWT methanol dual-fuel chemical/product oil tankers at Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI).
The two vessels form part of ASP’s broader newbuilding programme and represent an investment of approximately US$100 million. They are among the 20 newbuildings ordered by ASP in 2024, reflecting the company’s continued commitment to fleet expansion, modernisation and long-term sustainable growth.
Investing in a Modern and More Efficient Fleet
The new vessels are designed as methanol dual-fuel chemical/product oil tankers, enabling them to operate using both conventional marine fuel and methanol.
For ASP, the investment represents an important step in the development of a modern tanker fleet and supports the company’s long-term approach to fleet renewal and sustainable growth. The vessels are designed to meet leading international environmental standards, reflecting ASP’s focus on combining fleet expansion with operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.
The project will also strengthen ASP’s capacity to serve customers across international markets with modern and versatile tanker tonnage.
A Milestone in ASP’s Fleet Expansion
The steel-cutting ceremony marks the beginning of construction of the two vessels and represents an important milestone in ASP’s strategic fleet expansion programme.
As ASP continues to develop its fleet across bulk carriers, LPG tankers and oil/chemical tankers, investment in newbuilding tonnage provides the company with an opportunity to strengthen its operational capabilities and build a more modern fleet.
At the time of the ceremony, ASP’s fleet comprised 24 vessels, including 22 owned vessels, across these three main segments. The two new tankers were scheduled for delivery in the first half of 2026.
Supporting Sustainable Maritime Development
Methanol dual-fuel technology represents an important development in ASP’s fleet renewal strategy.
By investing in vessels capable of using alternative fuels, ASP is preparing its fleet for the evolving requirements of international maritime transportation while maintaining the operational flexibility required to serve customers effectively.
As an ASP representative noted during the ceremony:
“These vessels not only enhance our fleet, helping us to serve our clients more effectively, but also reaffirm our dedication to advancing sustainable practices within the industry.”
The project reflects ASP’s approach to combining commercial fleet development with responsible investment in vessel technologies that support a more efficient maritime future.
Strengthening Cooperation with Guangzhou Shipyard International
The project also represents an important cooperation between ASP and Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI), one of China's major shipbuilding enterprises.
Through the newbuilding programme, ASP is working closely with its shipbuilding partners to develop modern tanker tonnage that meets the operational and environmental requirements of international shipping.
The steel-cutting ceremony marked the start of construction and provided an opportunity for representatives from ASP and GSI to celebrate the next stage of the project and their continued cooperation.
Building for Long-Term Growth
The two 49,500 DWT methanol dual-fuel tankers are part of ASP’s broader fleet expansion programme, which included 20 newbuildings ordered in 2024.
The programme represents an important stage in ASP’s development as a Vietnamese shipowner, supporting the company’s ambition to build a larger, more modern and diversified fleet serving international markets.
ASP will continue to invest in new tonnage, develop its operational and technical capabilities, and work with experienced maritime partners to support safe, efficient and reliable vessel operations.
Looking Ahead
The steel-cutting of the two new tankers marks another step in ASP’s journey from a growing Vietnamese shipowner into an increasingly diversified international shipping company.
Through continued investment in fleet renewal, modern vessel technologies and long-term partnerships, ASP aims to build a stronger and more future-ready fleet while creating lasting value for its customers, people and country.
About Asia Pacific Shipping
Asia Pacific Shipping (ASP) is an independent, wholly private Vietnamese shipowner and operator of tankers and bulk carriers. Founded by experienced maritime professionals, ASP has grown from bulk carrier operations into a diversified shipowning business with an expanding tanker fleet and a long-term newbuilding programme.
ASP combines shipowning, commercial operations and technical management to operate its fleet safely, efficiently and reliably across international markets.
