QatarEnergy signs historic $6bn deal with CSSC for LNG vessel construction

QatarEnergy has entered into a monumental agreement with China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) to construct 18 ultra-modern QC-Max size LNG vessels, marking the largest single shipbuilding contract in the industry. This significant development, which took place during a special ceremony in Beijing, is a key part of QatarEnergy’s historic LNG fleet expansion program.

These new vessels, each boasting a capacity of 271,000 cubic meters, will be built at Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard, a subsidiary of CSSC. They are designed to feature the latest technological innovations and exceptional environmental performance, setting a new standard in the LNG transportation sector. The construction of these vessels represents a nearly $6 billion investment, underscoring the scale and ambition of QatarEnergy’s fleet enhancement efforts.

The agreement was signed by His Excellency Mr. Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, the Minister of State for Energy Affairs and the President and CEO of QatarEnergy, and senior executives from CSSC, in the presence of high-ranking Chinese government officials and Mr. Mohamed Abdullah Al-Dehaimi, Qatar’s Ambassador in the People’s Republic of China. H.E. Minister Al-Kaabi stated, “It is our honor to continue working with China State Shipbuilding Corporation and Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard to develop and build some of the top-tier LNG vessels renowned for their exceptional environmental qualities.”

With the first of these vessels expected to be delivered between 2028 and 2031, the strategic timeline ensures a continuous enhancement of QatarEnergy’s operational capabilities. This fleet expansion aligns with QatarEnergy’s ongoing commitments to environmental sustainability and operational excellence in providing safe and reliable energy sources.

This strategic agreement not only solidifies the cooperative relationship between Qatar and China in the energy sector but also enhances QatarEnergy’s global position as a leader in the LNG market. The deal with CSSC reflects a significant leap in technological and environmental standards for global LNG operations, setting a benchmark for future projects within the industry.