Greek owner Liquimar Tankers has ordered three suezmax newbuildings at China's Jiangsu New Hantong Ship Heavy Industry, marking its first newbuilding deal in roughly two decades, according to industry sources. The vessels are reported to be 157,000-dwt crude carriers, continuing the current wave of tanker orders among Greek shipowners. The order, led by Dimitris Papadimitriou, signals a renewal of Liquimar's suezmax fleet after a long gap without newbuilding activity. The company has traditionally relied on the secondhand market to grow its tanker tonnage, making this contract a notable shift in strategy. The deal comes amid a broader surge in tanker newbuilding activity from Greek owners, who have been capitalising on strong freight rates and rising asset values. Suezmax tankers remain in high demand as trade patterns adjust to sanctions on Russian oil exports and shifting crude flows, with owners seeking modern, fuel-efficient tonnage to replace ageing vessels. Further details on pricing, delivery schedules and financing for the three suezmaxes have not been disclosed. Jiangsu New Hantong Ship Heavy Industry has been among the Chinese yards benefiting from the recent uptick in tanker ordering activity.