China launched its first newbuild dual-fuel methanol bunkering vessel, the Da Qing 268, at Qifan Shipyard in Zhoushan, on October 23, state-owned China Daily reports.

Designed by Zhoushan Wanda Ship Design, the vessel measures 109.9 meters in length, 20 meters in width, and 10.2 meters in depth. It features a dual-fuel system that allows for flexible switching between methanol and conventional marine fuel.

The Da Qing 268 is capable of transporting chemicals, refined oil, and methanol fuel, whilst its primary function will be to supply methanol and fuel oil to ships operating in port anchorages.

The 7,500-tonne vessel was built by Zhoushan Hehui Ship Engineering and has now been relocated to the outfitting quay for system installation, equipment testing, and sea trials. Delivery is expected by late December.

Based in Zhejiang Province, Zhoushan Hehui was responsible for the construction of the Anji Ocean marine research vessel, which was launched in June 2025 and incorporates all-electric propulsion technology. It is Zhejiang's first privately-built 2000-tonne all-electric marine research and testing ship.

China's first ever methanol bunkering vessel, Hai Gang Zhi Yuan, began operations in January 2024 following a conversion process at Zhoushan Putuo Changhong Shipbuilding. Constructed in 2021, the 16,000-cbm tanker is owned by Shanghai SIPG Energy Services.