U-Ming diversifies into LNG

U-Ming Marine Transport has made good on its vow to enter the LNG trades. The Taiwanese shipowner signalled last June its intention to get into the gas business as it outlined fleet expansion plans to get its fleet to the 100-ship mark.

It has since inked an agreement with Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (K Line) to buy into a 174,000 cu m LNG carrier newbuild the Japanese owner has on order at Samsung Heavy Industries for delivery in 2026.

KMU LNG Shipping is the name of the new joint venture between U-Ming and K Line with both partners exploring further gas investments.

U-Ming is best known for its fleet of bulkers and cement carriers. Its mixed fleet also includes tankers and latterly crew transport vessels.