Chinese shipbuilder Hengli Heavy Industries has secured a contract with a well-known European shipowner for up to four very large crude carriers (VLCCs), in a deal valued at approximately $470 million. The newbuild VLCCs, each with a capacity of 306,000 dwt and priced at around $118 million, are widely believed to be linked to John Fredriksen’s tanker giant Frontline, though Hengli did not officially disclose the buyer. The vessels, designed in-house by Hengli, will feature enhanced energy efficiency and lower carbon emissions, complying with the latest international regulations. This agreement follows Hengli’s recent delivery of its first self-developed VLCC, the Aliakmon I, and comes as Hengli Group continues to expand its presence in the large crude carrier market. According to Clarksons data, Hengli Group currently has 13 VLCCs on order at its Dalian yard, including the four units now associated with Frontline.