商船三井LNG船订购从中国转向韩国

Core Viewpoint - Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) is shifting its LNG carrier orders from Chinese shipyards to South Korean companies due to operational risks associated with increasing the number of Chinese vessels amid ongoing US-China tensions [1][3]. Group 1: Company Strategy - MOL has decided to pause new orders for LNG carriers from Chinese shipyards, opting instead for South Korean firms as a reliable alternative [1]. - As of March 31, MOL owns 107 LNG carriers, leading the global market, and plans to increase its fleet to 140 by the fiscal year 2028, representing a 30% increase from March 2025 [1]. - The company has recently ordered 6 vessels from Chinese shipyards, but these contracts will remain intact despite the shift in strategy [1]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The global shipbuilding market sees China holding over 50% of new orders, ranking second in LNG vessel orders, just behind South Korea [2]. - Japanese shipbuilders have struggled to secure new orders over the past decade due to labor shortages, leading to a reduction in production capacity [2]. - The US government has announced plans to impose port fees on Chinese-built vessels, which could further complicate the operational landscape for Japanese shipping companies [3]. Group 3: Energy Policy Implications - Japan is increasing its LNG imports from the US, with 6.34 million tons expected in 2024, accounting for 10% of total imports [3]. - The environmental benefits of LNG, which has 20-30% lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to oil, are driving future demand for LNG as a fuel for shipping and power generation [3]. - If port fees are applied to Chinese vessels, the transportation costs for LNG could rise, potentially impacting Japan's energy policy [3].