Yang Ming Marine Transport’s dry bulk arm, Kuang Ming Shipping, has re-entered the newbuilding market with orders for four ultramax bulk carriers at Japanese shipyards, signalling renewed confidence in the long-term prospects of the dry bulk segment.
The contracts, valued between NT$4.9 billion and NT$5.4 billion (approximately USD 155–171 million), cover two ultramax vessels to be built by Nihon Shipyard and Imabari Shipbuilding, and two additional units ordered at Oshima Shipbuilding in partnership with Sumisho Marine. Each vessel is priced in the range of NT$1.2 billion to NT$1.4 billion. Delivery schedules have not yet been announced.
The latest investment represents Kuang Ming Shipping’s first newbuilding commitment in almost ten years. The company last placed orders during 2014–15, when it contracted four ultramax bulkers at Iwagi Zosen, with deliveries completed between 2016 and 2018. Since then, Kuang Ming has focused on operating and optimising its existing fleet.
At present, Kuang Ming Shipping manages a fleet of 11 bulk carriers, comprising 10 owned vessels spanning ultramax to kamsarmax segments, along with one capesize vessel on long-term charter. Founded in 1990, the company initially functioned as a booking agent supporting Yang Ming’s container business before diversifying into dry bulk shipping in 2008.
Industry observers view the new orders as a strategic step to strengthen Kuang Ming’s fleet profile and operational capacity amid expectations of sustained demand in the dry bulk market. As global trade activity continues to stabilise and recover, investments in modern, fuel-efficient tonnage are increasingly seen as essential for long-term competitiveness in the sector.
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