In September 2025, there were only 14 orders for alternative-fuelled vessels, as reported by DNV’s Alternative Fuels Insight (AFI) platform. Among these, 12 were LNG-fuelled, predominantly from the container sector, which accounted for six orders. The bulk carrier and cruise segments contributed four and two orders, respectively, while two orders were for LPG carriers. This decline is evident in the first nine months of 2025, where total orders dropped by 48% compared to the same timeframe in 2024, with LNG remaining the preferred fuel choice.
The container segment is leading the transition, making up 63% of new orders in 2025 with 120 vessels. Jason Stefanatos, Global Decarbonization Director at DNV Maritime, noted a marked slowdown in the market, citing zero new orders in August and low activity in September. He attributed this trend to a combination of a weaker newbuild market, rising costs, and regulatory uncertainties, particularly regarding the IMO’s Net-Zero Framework.
This slowdown starkly contrasts with the first half of 2025, which saw a significant increase in orders and gross tonnage. The maritime industry is now facing further uncertainty with an upcoming vote at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) on the Net Zero Framework, which could impose mandatory emissions caps and penalties for non-compliance starting in 2027.
