China is delivering two 174,000-cubic-meter next-generation liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers in Shanghai on Thursday and Friday, marking a milestone in domestic shipbuilding and green maritime innovation.
The two vessels are China's fifth-generation large LNG carriers, independently designed and built with the world's latest design concepts, advanced technological equipment, and outstanding environmental performance.
The ships have achieved full autonomy over key technologies, significantly raised the proportion of domestically made equipment, and greatly enhanced overall performance, reaching a leading international standard.
"We have equipped the ship with the world's first re-liquefaction system and a domestically developed exhaust gas recirculation system, which can effectively reduce carbon dioxide emissions during navigation and greatly improve energy efficiency. The ship is also fitted with an anti-collision system, enhancing safety and reliability during voyages," said Du Yigang, an official with the carrier's manufacturer Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding (Group) Co.
The manufacturer currently holds more than 50 LNG ship orders, with 24 under construction. The company is expected to deliver 11 large LNG carriers this year, setting a new national record for annual deliveries.
By June 2025, China's new green vessel orders accounted for 68.8 percent of the global market share, while the shipbuilding industry's profit margin reached 9.71 percent, its highest level in nearly a decade. This aligns with national efforts to upgrade key industries and strengthen global competitiveness in sectors such as shipbuilding and advanced manufacturing.
The China Association of the National Shipbuilding Industry noted that the next five years will be crucial for the country's shipbuilding industry to respond to the global maritime sector's green transition, expand its industrial advantages, and achieve high-quality development.
Guided by the national emission reduction strategy, the sector will accelerate its green transformation and focus on applying low-carbon technologies and developing high-end ship models.
"China is currently the only country in the world capable of producing a full range of maritime products to meet all industry needs. The notable progress we achieved in green vessel construction is closely tied to the establishment of a global green supply chain. We have always adhered to global integration through technological innovation while continuously strengthening our industrial capacity," said Li Yanqing, secretary-general of the association.
China delivers two fifth-generation LNG carriers, marking leap in green maritime innovation
