The newbuildings are designed by the Marine Design and Research Institute of China (MARIC) and will each feature a nominal capacity of about 3,010 teu. This includes approximately 1,930 teu on deck and 1,080 teu in the holds, with space reserved for reefer containers. The vessels will measure 186 meters in length and about 35 meters in width. Deliveries are scheduled to take place between 2027 and 2028. The contract value has not been disclosed.
The order comes amid increasing demand for containerships in the 3,000 to 3,100 teu size range. In recent months, several international owners have placed similar orders at Chinese yards. Vietnam’s Hai An Transport, Norway-based Blystad Group, Greek shipowner Costamare, and Turkish industrial conglomerate Ciner Group are among the companies that have secured newbuilds in this category.
The trend highlights the attractiveness of mid-sized containerships for regional and feeder services, as well as the strong competitive position of Chinese shipbuilders in delivering such vessels. With designs from MARIC, the new ships ordered by Anhui Zhongxin Funeng Shipping are expected to balance cargo flexibility, reefer capacity, and efficiency in operations.
China’s shipbuilding sector continues to secure a significant share of global newbuild orders, supported by design institutes and major yards that cater to a broad spectrum of international clients. The latest order underscores the confidence of both domestic and foreign owners in the ability of Chinese shipyards to deliver high-quality and technologically advanced vessels on schedule.
By joining the series of recent deals, Anhui Zhongxin Funeng Shipping strengthens its fleet expansion strategy while aligning with industry trends favoring versatile, medium-capacity containerships. The move also reflects sustained momentum in the container shipping market, where operators seek ships that can meet regional demand and optimize slot utilization without the constraints of ultra-large vessels.
As global shipping companies diversify their fleets, Chinese yards such as Jiangsu Dayang Offshore Equipment remain well positioned to benefit from continued demand. The collaboration between MARIC and the shipyard highlights the integration of domestic design expertise with advanced construction capabilities, ensuring that the newbuildings meet modern operational standards.
The order adds to a series of commitments placed at Chinese yards and demonstrates the industry’s confidence in the country’s shipbuilding capabilities. Deliveries in 2027 and 2028 will further contribute to the modernization of Anhui Zhongxin Funeng Shipping’s fleet while supporting the broader trend of fleet renewal among global shipping operators.
