Zodiac Maritime, based in the UK, has made history by becoming the inaugural client of Samsung Heavy Industries’ newly acquired shipyard in Vietnam. The company has ordered three conventional Suezmax tankers, each priced at $80 million, with delivery scheduled for 2028. This marks a significant milestone for both Zodiac Maritime and Samsung Heavy as they embark on this collaboration.
The vessels will have a deadweight tonnage (dwt) of approximately 157,000 and will be constructed at Samsung’s PVSM shipyard located in southern Vietnam. This shipyard is being developed in partnership with PetroVietnam, highlighting a strategic alliance aimed at enhancing shipbuilding capabilities in the region.
Zodiac Maritime has a track record of pioneering partnerships, having previously secured the first LR2 orders from Yangzijiang, as well as unique deals for car carriers with Raffles and Xiamen. This latest venture further cements the company’s reputation for innovation in the maritime industry.
Meanwhile, HD Hyundai, another South Korean shipbuilder, has maintained a presence in Vietnam for several years. Major South Korean shipyards are currently expanding internationally, as domestic order books are projected to remain full through the end of the decade.
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