UK shipping company Union Maritime (UML) has ordered nine newbuildings across Newcastlemax and handysize bulk carriers as well as tankers for chemicals and petroleum products.
No details have been provided on how the nine vessels are to be divided between the four categories, nor have the shipyards, contract prices, individual vessel specifications or delivery schedules been identified.
The additions will expand UML’s dry bulk exposure while adding to its chemical and product tanker programmes.
The latest order followed a sustained newbuilding expansion by UML. A report published last month placed the company’s construction programme at 69 vessels, with about 90 per cent of the ships being built at Chinese yards.
That programme comprised 50 oil tankers. It also included 15 bulk carriers and four gas carriers, with deliveries scheduled between 2026 and 2030.
Of the 69 vessels, 61 were listed at shipyards in China, four in South Korea, two in Japan and two in Vietnam. Wuhu Shipyard held the largest share, with 20 UML vessels awaiting delivery.