COSCO Shipping Specialised Carriers is expanding its project cargo fleet with an order for eight new multipurpose heavylift vessels at CSSC Chengxi Shipyard, targeting growing demand for offshore wind logistics and oversized industrial cargo transportation.
The company will invest up to $387.8m in the newbuild programme through its subsidiary COSCO Shipping (Hong Kong) Investment and Development or related affiliates. The vessels are scheduled for delivery between April 2029 and June 2030.
The new ships will have a capacity of around 60,000 dwt and will transport wind turbine components, offshore energy equipment and other project cargoes. COSCO said the vessels will strengthen its position in specialised shipping markets driven by renewable energy projects and China’s exports of heavy industrial equipment.
The order follows a series of fleet expansion moves by the company. Earlier, COSCO contracted Chengxi Shipyard for four 40,000 dwt multipurpose heavylift vessels, with deliveries planned from June 2028 to February 2029.
In 2025, the company also signed a long-term bareboat charter agreement for six 60,000 dwt heavylift vessels from the same shipyard. The vessels are being financed through Bank of Communications Financial Leasing under a 16-year charter arrangement.
COSCO Shipping Specialised Carriers operates more than 150 vessels, including over 60 multipurpose and heavylift ships. The company is adding new tonnage as demand grows for specialised cargo transportation, particularly for offshore wind developments and large industrial projects.
