Today (September 9), the world’s largest ultra-large liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier—measuring 271,000 cubic meters—officially commenced construction at Hudong–Zhonghua Shipbuilding, a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC). Its key performance parameters have undergone comprehensive iteration and upgrading, with delivery scheduled for 2028.

The 271,000 cubic meter LNG carrier that has started construction is 344 meters long and comes with the latest domestically produced membrane containment system. Its cargo capacity, energy efficiency, environmental performance, and navigation safety have all been fully upgraded. Compared to the mainstream 174,000 cubic meter traditional LNG carriers on the market, this ship has 57% more cargo capacity and top-notch overall performance in the industry.

Currently, China holds over 30% of the global LNG ship market, and Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding has nearly 60 LNG ships on order, ranking first in the world by capacity, with production schedules already lined up past 2030.