China’s shipbuilding industry has achieved a new milestone as major shipyards prepare to deliver four advanced liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers this October, the highest number ever completed within a single month.
According to Beijing Daily, these fifth-generation LNG vessels represent a breakthrough in technology, efficiency, and quality, bringing China’s shipbuilding standards on par with international benchmarks.
On Thursday, Hudong Zhonghua Shipbuilding (Group) Co., a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation, delivered the 174,000 cubic meter LNG vessel Mihzem, which was fully developed and built domestically. Another vessel of the same capacity, Greenergy Moon, is scheduled for delivery on Friday.
Hudong Zhonghua Shipbuilding described LNG carrier construction as the crown jewel of the shipbuilding industry, comparing its complexity to that of aircraft carrier construction.
Both Mihzem and Greenergy Moon belong to the fifth generation “Changheng” series, flagship vessels in the global market. With over 80 per cent localisation in components and technology, these carriers reflect China’s growing independence in high-value maritime manufacturing. Each fully loaded vessel can supply Shanghai’s energy needs for half a month.
These next-generation LNG carriers integrate the latest global design concepts and top-tier environmental technologies. They feature the world’s first reliquefaction system and a domestically developed exhaust gas recirculation system, which together reduce carbon emissions and LNG consumption, improving overall fuel efficiency.
Additionally, the vessels are equipped with an automatic collision avoidance system, enhancing safety and navigation reliability during long voyages.
Hudong Zhonghua Shipbuilding currently holds over 50 LNG carrier orders, with more than 20 under construction. The company is on track to deliver 11 large LNG carriers this year, setting a new national record for the highest annual delivery volume in China’s shipbuilding history.
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