China Leads in Green Maritime Innovation
China has achieved a breakthrough in green shipbuilding with the delivery of its first self-developed large dual-fuel RoPax ship. Built by Guangzhou Shipyard under the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), the vessel was officially handed over in Nansha, Guangzhou. It can operate on both traditional fuel oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG), marking a significant step toward clean-energy transformation in the maritime sector.
A Fully Independent, High-Tech Design
Holding independent intellectual property rights, the 12-deck vessel is designed for short-distance transport between islands and coastal cities. It includes 485 cabins, space for 1,800 passengers, and over 550 vehicles. With modern facilities such as a buffet restaurant, café, and observation lounge, the ship combines comfort with sustainability.
The LNG system can store about 1,000 cubic meters of fuel, enough for nearly five days of sailing. Moreover, all interior components were produced domestically, highlighting China’s strong industrial and technological base. Once operational, the ship will run on the Genoa–Palermo route in Italy.
A Major Step Toward Green Shipping
Experts believe this delivery demonstrates China’s growing leadership in clean-energy shipbuilding. Bian Yongzu, executive deputy editor-in-chief of Modernisation of Management magazine, explained that clean-energy vessels are shaping the future of global shipping. They help reduce emissions, cut long-term costs, and lower reliance on fossil fuels. He added that China’s well-developed industrial ecosystem and advanced technology are crucial in driving these innovations.
China’s Global Leadership in Shipbuilding
According to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), China remained the world’s top shipbuilder from January to September 2025. The country led across all three major indicators: output, new orders, and order backlog.
During this period, shipbuilding output rose 6% year-on-year to 38.53 million DWT. Meanwhile, total backlog increased by 25.3% to 242.24 million DWT. These figures reinforce China’s dominant position in global ship production and its commitment to sustainable development in the maritime sector.
A Milestone for the Future
The delivery of the dual-fuel RoPax ship not only showcases China’s clean-energy innovation but also reaffirms its central role in shaping the future of sustainable maritime transport. By integrating green technology and independent design, China continues to strengthen its leadership in the global shipbuilding industry.
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