Zhoushan, located in China's Zhejiang province, recorded ship exports of 20.38 billion yuan ($3 billion) in the first five months of 2026, up 93.7% year on year, according to data from Zhoushan Customs revealed by Zhoushan Information Office — said to be driven by rising demand for more advanced and environmentally friendly vessels.

The figures coincide with the start of construction on what is said to be the largest LNG dual-fuel container ship currently being built in Zhejiang. On 22 June, a 19,000-teu LNG dual-fuel ultra-large container ship entered a dry dock at the shipbuilding base of Changhong International in Daishan county, marking the beginning of its main construction phase. The vessel is expected to be delivered by the end of the year.

Geng Hongwei, general manager of Changhong International, said the shipbuilder currently holds orders for more than 20 new vessels, plans to deliver six ships this year, and already has production scheduled through the second half of 2029.

To support the shipbuilding industry, Zhoushan Customs has introduced streamlined procedures covering ship registration, modifications, relocation approvals and export formalities, Zhoushan Information Office notes.