Thu 4 Dec 2025, 07:10 GMT | Updated: Thu 4 Dec 2025, 07:13 GMT | Evangelia Fragouli

Hong Lam Marine lays keel for methanol-capable bunkering tanker in China


Singapore-based Hong Lam Marine has begun construction of an alternative-fuel bunkering vessel at a Chinese shipyard.


Keel-laying ceremony for a 7,999 DWT bunkering tanker.
Hong Lam Marine's new 7,999 DWT tanker will feature lithium battery technology for peak-shaving operations. Pictured: Representatives from Jiangmen Hangtong Shipyard, Bureau Veritas, and Hong Lam Marine during the keel-laying ceremony for the 7,999 DWT bunkering tanker on December 1, 2025, at Jiangmen Hangtong Shipyard, China. Image credit: Hong Lam Marine

Singapore-based Hong Lam Marine has marked a new milestone with the keel-laying of its 7,999 DWT product oil and chemical bunkering tanker at Jiangmen Hangtong Shipyard in China. The ceremony took place on 1 December 2025 and formally began the vessel’s construction phase, the company announced.

The newbuild is an IMO II tanker designed for alternative-fuel operations and will be able to transport methanol alongside other chemical cargoes. According to the company, the vessel has been developed to support cleaner bunkering practices and to help reduce emissions across the region once in service.

A key feature of the tanker is its advanced Power Management System, which incorporates a lithium battery setup. This enables peak shaving and battery-assisted cargo handling, helping the vessel avoid high-demand charges and deliver significant operational cost savings.

Bureau Veritas is providing classification services for the newbuild. However, the company has not disclosed the expected delivery date for the vessel or the construction cost.

Hong Lam Marine operates a modern fleet of 25 tankers that support bunkering operations in Singapore and the transport of chemicals and related products across Southeast Asia. Moreover, it is recognised for its strong safety record in the Singapore maritime sector. The company continues to introduce tankers equipped with advanced technology to meet the evolving requirements of oil majors and regional shipping customers.



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