NYK-MISC JV Charters Dual-Fuel LNG Carrier for Japan Trade | Mariner News
A joint venture between Japan’s NYK and Malaysia’s MISC Berhad has secured a long-term charter contract with Malaysia LNG Sdn. Bhd. for a new dual-fuel LNG carrier. The agreement, signed by the Asia LNG Transport (ALT) joint venture, positions a new 18,700 m3 capacity vessel for service by 2028, bolstering Japan’s regional energy supply infrastructure.
The vessel, built by China’s Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding, will feature a dual-fuel electric propulsion system and measure approximately 129.8 meters in length. Its primary role will be transporting LNG to Japan, underscoring a strategic move to enhance the stability and flexibility of Japan’s energy imports.
The relatively modest cargo tank capacity of 18,700 m3 for an LNG carrier suggests an operational focus beyond traditional large-scale intercontinental LNG imports. This size is indicative of a small-scale LNG (SSLNG) vessel, implying its employment could target regional distribution within Japan, direct deliveries to smaller terminals, or potentially LNG bunkering services, rather than solely long-haul supply from Malaysia’s liquefaction plants to major import terminals. This points to an evolving, more distributed network for LNG utilization within Japan.
The adoption of a dual-fuel electric propulsion system aligns with broader industry trends towards lower-emission vessels and operational flexibility, positioning the carrier to meet future environmental regulations and market demands.
“We are very pleased to have concluded this charter agreement,” stated Hironobu Watanabe, Senior Managing Executive Officer at NYK. He emphasized the joint commitment with MLNG, MISC, and other partners to provide safe, reliable LNG transportation services and contribute to Japan’s stable energy supply.
The charter agreement was formally signed at a ceremony in Tokyo on October 9, with the announcement made on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.
