MSC Orders 20 More Dual-Fuel Ultra-Large Boxships in China

has secured a 5+5 contract for 21,700 TEU dual-fuel boxships, with first deliveries expected in late 2028. Year-to-date in 2026, MSC has now contracted up to 44 container ships at Chinese yards for a combined value of around USD 8.4 billion. MSC has opted for the 22,000 TEU vessel class over 24,000 TEU megaships, citing improved port compatibility and operational flexibility. Industry observers note that prolonged disruptions on Red Sea shipping routes, combined with limited shipyard capacity for 2028-2029 delivery slots, are prompting major liner operators to secure newbuilding berths well ahead of time. According to Alphaliner data, MSC currently operates a fleet of 7.39 million TEU, representing a 21.5 percent global market share, and has 166 vessels on order, equivalent to roughly 40 percent of its existing fleet. The carrier accounts for nearly half of all outstanding global orders for container ships above 17,000 TEU, reinforcing its dominant position in the ultra-large-vessel segment.