Uni-Asia doubles up on Japanese handysize newbuilds

Singapore-listed Uni-Asia Group has doubled its handysize newbuilding programme with a second 40,000 dwt bulker from Japan. According to gCaptain, the company signed an agreement with Nihon Shipyard and an affiliate for the vessel, which will be constructed by Imabari Shipbuilding at their Shimanami yard. The newbuild is set for delivery between the fourth quarter of 2029 and the first half of 2030. While no specific price was disclosed, Uni-Asia highlighted that the ship would feature a fuel-efficient engine and a dual-fuel-ready design to enable future retrofitting.

This order marks the continuation of Uni-Asia’s return to newbuilding activities after an absence of over a decade. As reported by TradeWinds, their last newbuild order was in 2015 for a bulker that joined their fleet in 2020. Since then, the company has focused on fleet renewal through secondhand acquisitions and older vessel disposals.

Newbuilding programme highlights

The current order is part of Uni-Asia’s broader fleet renewal strategy. The newbuildings will contribute to enhancing the company's operational efficiency and environmental performance. According to gCaptain, the ship’s design allows for future flexibility, making it a strategic choice in an evolving market.

This second order from Imabari Shipbuilding aligns with Uni-Asia’s commitment to reliable Japanese shipyards, as evidenced by their initial contract signed earlier this year. The delivery timeline provides a buffer that can help the company manage supply chain uncertainties and market fluctuations effectively.

For ship operators considering newbuild options, the choice of Imabari Shipbuilding underscores the reliability and technological advancements available in Japan’s shipbuilding sector. The fuel-efficient and dual-fuel-ready design may also offer cost savings through lower operational costs in the long run, as global emissions regulations continue to tighten.