A Billion-Dollar Bet on Green Shipping
China’s Zhoushan Changhong International Shipyard has just inked a groundbreaking deal with Greek shipping titan George Economou’s TMS Group. The order? Up to 10 cutting-edge LNG-powered dual-fuel containerships, valued at a staggering $1.4 billion. This marks the first collaboration between TMS Group and the Zhoushan shipyard, signaling a bold move into sustainable shipping solutions.
The agreement, signed in February 2025, includes six firm Neo-Panamax boxships and four optional vessels, all set to hit the seas between 2027 and 2029. These behemoths will measure 299 meters in length, 48.2 meters in beam, and 27 meters in depth, making them some of the largest and most advanced ships in TMS Group’s fleet.
A Green Comeback for TMS
This order isn’t just a milestone for the shipyard—it’s a statement of intent from TMS Group. After a four-year hiatus from the container market, Economou is back with a vengeance, doubling down on eco-friendly innovations. Earlier, TMS secured a contract for four methanol-ready 7,900 TEU boxships with South Korea’s HJ Shipbuilding & Construction, set for delivery starting in 2026.
With over 130 ships already in its fleet—spanning tankers, bulk carriers, and gas carriers—TMS Group is no stranger to maritime dominance. The company’s subsidiaries, including TMS Cardiff Gas and TMS Tankers, manage a diverse portfolio, with more than 40 vessels currently on order.
Eco-Friendly Innovations Take Center Stage
TMS Group’s commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop at LNG-powered ships. In December 2024, the company unveiled two state-of-the-art Suezmax tankers, Ipanema and Toska, built by China’s New Times Shipbuilding. These 274-meter-long giants are equipped with environmentally friendly technologies, showcasing TMS’s dedication to reducing its carbon footprint.
As the shipping industry grapples with stricter environmental regulations, TMS Group is positioning itself as a leader in green innovation. With LNG and methanol-ready vessels leading the charge, the future of shipping looks cleaner, smarter, and more efficient.
