Yang Ming Expands Fleet with Strategic Acquisition of Methanol-Powered Containerships

Yang Ming, a major player in Taiwan’s shipping industry, recently shared some exciting news following its impressive financial performance in 2024. The company is kicking off a fleet enhancement and expansion initiative that was initially revealed back in December 2024. They’re set to acquire three dual-fuel methanol containerships from the Japanese leasing firm Shoei kisen Kaisha.

These vessels are already being constructed by Imabari Shipbuilding and are expected to be delivered between 2028 and 2029, each boasting an impressive capacity of 8,000 TEU. Notably, they will feature energy-efficient engines designed for future option fuel options. Yang Ming is also diving into digitalization and smart tech to modernize operations.

Currently ranked tenth by Alphaliner wiht over 700,000 TEU capacity, Yang Ming is focused on bolstering its core business strategies.As part of the revamped Premier alliance formed in February 2025 alongside HMM and ONE (Ocean Network Express), the company aims to expand services after losing Hapag-Lloyd from their previous alliance structure. They’ve already rolled out new Transpacific trade services for 2025 along with enhanced Transatlantic routes while planning to broaden regional offerings.

A couple of weeks ago, Yang Ming reported consolidated revenues hitting $6.9 billion for the year with profits nearing $2 billion despite facing challenges like supply growth outstripping demand last year. though, they remain optimistic about long-term prospects within the industry.

The fleet optimization strategy involves phasing out older vessels over two decades old in favor of newer ships ranging from 5,500 to 6,500 TEU capacities. Plans include adding up to thirteen new vessels—six dual-fuel-ready ships at around 8,000 TEU each—and seven LNG-powered vessels capable of carrying up to 15,000 TEU.

No specific timeline has been provided for this fleet upgrade initiative yet; though, it’s clear that it plays a crucial role in their overall business strategy moving forward.