China begins construction of world’s largest LNG carrier vessel, strengthening its position in advanced shipbuilding and global energy transportation.
SHANGHAI: China has started building one of the world’s largest liquefied natural gas carriers, marking another milestone in the country’s rapidly expanding high-end shipbuilding sector. The project highlights China’s growing role in global energy logistics and its increasing competitiveness in advanced maritime manufacturing.
The vessel, classified as a QC-Max LNG carrier, is being built by Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding under China State Shipbuilding Corporation. Scheduled for delivery in 2028, the ship will have a cargo capacity of 271,000 cubic metres, making it among the largest LNG carriers ever constructed.
China begins construction of world’s largest LNG carrier vessel as demand for energy transportation continues to rise worldwide. Measuring 344 metres in length, the vessel features an upgraded membrane containment system designed to maximise cargo storage while improving safety and operational efficiency.
According to the shipbuilder, the vessel offers a 57 per cent increase in cargo capacity compared with conventional LNG carriers that typically transport 174,000 cubic metres. Despite its larger size, the ship is expected to maintain a low daily boil-off rate of 0.087 per cent, reducing cargo losses during long-distance voyages.
The vessel will also be powered by a dual-fuel propulsion system that complies with the International Maritime Organisation’s Tier III emissions standards. Its design allows it to operate efficiently while meeting environmental requirements and accessing major LNG terminals around the world.
China begins construction of world’s largest LNG carrier vessel as part of a major LNG programme linked to Qatar. Hudong-Zhonghua has already secured orders for 36 vessels under the project, including 24 ships of the ultra-large QC-Max design.
Industry experts often describe LNG carriers as the most technically demanding vessels in commercial shipbuilding because of their complex engineering and specialised storage systems. The shipyard currently holds nearly 60 LNG carrier orders, the largest backlog globally by cargo volume.
China begins construction of world’s largest LNG carrier vessel at a time when its share of the global LNG shipbuilding market has surpassed 30 per cent, reflecting its growing influence in advanced maritime manufacturing.
