Trafigura signs for more VLCC newbuilds

Trafigura has returned to China for more very large crude carrier newbuilds.

Multiple brokers report the global commodities trader has signed up for three additional 319,000 dwt VLCCs at Jiangsu New Hantong Ship Heavy Industry.

No price has been revealed for the latest series, which will be fitted with scrubbers and ammonia-ready.

Trafigura inked its debut VLCC order for two ships at the same yard earlier this year on the back of a market shortage of modern supertanker tonnage, which will see only a handful of units delivered this and next year.

The company’s first newbuilds are expected to join the fleet in July and September of 2026, while the latest trio is slated for delivery in 2027.