In May 2026, DNV’s Alternative Fuels Insight platform reported 36 new orders for alternative-fuelled vessels, mainly LPG/ethane carriers. Overall, 119 alternative-fuelled vessel orders were placed this year, with LNG vessels dominating. Despite lower tonnage shares compared to 2025, the industry is progressing towards decarbonization amid evolving regulations.
Between January and November 2025, newbuilding contracts for bulk carriers fell by 54%, totaling 25 million DWT—the lowest since 2020. The dry bulk orderbook shrank by 4%, now at 11% of the fleet. Filipe Gouveia of BIMCO cites an uncertain market, with contracted vessels down 61% year-on-year.
MISC Group has signed contracts to build two LNG dual-fuel Suezmax tankers through AET, enhancing its fleet renewal and energy transition strategy. These vessels will operate under long-term charters, improving financial stability and supporting growth. This move underscores MISC’s commitment to cleaner shipping solutions and aligns with global net-zero goals.
Zodiac Maritime has made history as the first client of Samsung Heavy Industries’ new shipyard in Vietnam, ordering three Suezmax tankers at $80 million each, set for delivery in 2028. This partnership marks a significant milestone, enhancing shipbuilding capabilities in the region and solidifying Zodiac’s innovative reputation in maritime ventures.
In September 2025, only 14 alternative-fuelled vessel orders were reported, a significant decline from previous years. LNG remained the dominant choice, particularly in the container sector. The market slowdown, marked by zero new orders in August, reflects rising costs and regulatory uncertainties, especially concerning the IMO’s Net-Zero Framework.
In March 2025, DNV’s Alternative Fuels Insight platform reported 25 new orders for alternative-fueled vessels. Methanol was the top choice with 12 orders, followed by LNG and ammonia. Despite a 13% decrease in orders compared to 2024, optimism remains high for the future of alternative fuels in the maritime industry.
MAN Energy Solutions has seen a surge in orders for their MAN B&W G95ME-LGIM Mk 10.5 methanol engines for VLCVs. With 95 orders since 2021, these engines are gaining popularity in the marine industry’s push for lower emissions. Methanol, methane, and ammonia are crucial fuels for reducing carbon footprints, with methanol showing significant promise.
Analysts have observed a sharp rise in containership construction due to demand and fleet modernization. Alphaliner predicts continued growth, with record orders for containerships. Top carriers are investing in new vessels to meet capacity needs and environmental regulations. Fleet renewal and efficiency improvements are driving the surge in orders.
The container shipping segment is undergoing rapid changes, with MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company leading the way. Surpassing competitors, MSC has achieved a 20% market share and is on track to reach over 7 million TEU by 2025. Strategic acquisitions and capacity additions have propelled MSC to the forefront of the industry, with analysts predicting further growth and shifts ahead.
