Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) has announced the signing of long-term charter contracts through its subsidiary, MOL Energia Pte. Ltd., with SCG Chemicals (SCGC) for two additional Very Large Ethane Carriers (VLECs). This deal follows a previous agreement for three vessels, bringing the total to five new VLECs serving SCGC, a leading chemical player in ASEAN. The newly contracted vessels are being constructed by Samsung Heavy Industries Co . in South Korea and are expected to be delivered in 2028. These VLECs, with a capacity of 100,000m³ each, will feature ethane dual-fuel propulsion engines, aiming to cut greenhouse gas, sulfur oxide, and nitrogen oxide emissions compared to traditional fuel oil-powered ships. Upon completion, the MOL Group will manage a fleet of 14 dedicated liquefied ethane carriers globally. These vessels will be crucial in transporting the ethane required by SCGC's petrochemical plants in Vietnam, thereby enhancing Vietnam's petrochemical industry and contributing to economic growth within the region. Through this venture, the MOL Group plans to leverage their expertise in safe marine operations developed over years of transporting liquefied gases like LNG. Their focus remains on providing reliable shipping services while achieving stable, long-term profitability as outlined in their management strategy, BLUE ACTION 2035. The initiative aligns with their sustainability goals, emphasizing safe transportation and environmental conservation.