Norway-based small-scale player Kanfer Shipping said it has signed a letter of intent with Chinese shipyard Taizhou Wuzhou Shipbuilding for the construction of two LNG bunkering vessels.
Kanfer says the Chinese yard would deliver the 6,000-cbm bunkering and distribution vessels in the first half of 2023.
Moreover, the LOI also includes an option for addititional vessels.
The Norwegian firm will own the CGR Arctic Marine-designed LNG bunkering ships together with its partners and plans to charter them on long-term contracts.
To remind, Singapore’s AG&P made an equity investment in Kanfer back in November 2019.
Kanfer chief Stig Hagen says the firm sees a rapidly expanding market for LNG bunkering vessels as the world maritime industry continues to pivot towards its decarbonisation goals through LNG.
In addition, Hagen said the growing demand for new LNG bunkering vessels makes the company’s decision “well-timed”.