The global tanker shipping industry is experiencing a dynamic transformation in 2025. The world’s leading tanker shipping companies are adapting rapidly to rising energy demand, evolving trade routes, and stricter environmental regulations. This article ranks the top 10 tanker operators by fleet size and specialization, offering insights into the strategies shaping the future of tanker fleets worldwide.
Tanker Fleet Size Comparison (2025)
This chart highlights the dominance of China COSCO Energy, Scorpio Tankers, and MOL Tankship in the global tanker fleet landscape.
Top 10 Tanker Shipping Companies – 2025 Overview
| Rank | Tanker Operator | Fleet Size | Tanker Type Specialization | Headquarters |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | China COSCO Energy (CSET) | 140 | Crude, Product, LNG Tankers | China |
| 2 | Scorpio Tankers Inc. | 110 | MR & LR2 Product Tankers | Monaco |
| 3 | MOL Tankship (Mitsui O.S.K.) | 90 | Crude, LNG, Chemical Tankers | Japan |
| 4 | International Seaways Inc. | 80 | VLCC, Suezmax, MR Tankers | USA |
| 5 | Euronav NV | 70 | VLCCs & Suezmax Tankers | Belgium |
| 6 | Frontline Ltd. | 65 | VLCCs, Suezmax Tankers | Bermuda/Norway |
| 7 | Maran Tankers | 60 | VLCCs & Suezmax Tankers | Greece |
| 8 | Tsakos Energy Navigation | 60 | Mixed Tanker Fleet | Greece |
| 9 | Bahri (NSCSA) | 50 | VLCC Tankers | Saudi Arabia |
| 10 | Teekay Tankers Ltd. | 45 | Aframax, Suezmax Tankers | Canada |
Tanker Operator Profiles & Fleet Strategies
1. China COSCO Energy (CSET)
China’s largest tanker operator, CSET leads with a diversified fleet of VLCCs, product tankers, and LNG carriers. It plays a strategic role in China’s Belt and Road maritime expansion.
2. Scorpio Tankers Inc.
A global leader in product tanker shipping, Scorpio operates one of the most modern fleets of MR and LR2 tankers, optimized for fuel efficiency and emissions compliance.
3. MOL Tankship (Mitsui O.S.K.)
MOL’s tanker division is a pioneer in LNG propulsion and dual-fuel tankers, with a strong presence in crude oil and chemical tanker markets.
4. International Seaways Inc.
This U.S.-based company has grown through strategic mergers. It operates a balanced fleet of VLCC, Suezmax, and MR tankers, serving both spot and time-charter markets.
5. Euronav NV
A dominant force in the crude oil tanker segment, Euronav focuses on VLCC and Suezmax tankers and has a reputation for operational transparency and ESG leadership.
6. Frontline Ltd.
Backed by shipping magnate John Fredriksen, Frontline is known for its aggressive spot market strategy and a large fleet of crude tankers.
7. Maran Tankers
Part of the Angelicoussis Group, Maran Tankers operates a high-spec fleet of VLCCs and Suezmax tankers, often on long-term charters with oil majors.
8. Tsakos Energy Navigation (TEN Ltd.)
TEN operates a mixed tanker fleet and invests in LNG-ready and eco-efficient tankers to meet future regulatory demands.
9. Bahri (NSCSA)
Saudi Arabia’s national tanker shipping company, Bahri is a key player in global VLCC operations, supporting the kingdom’s crude export strategy.
10. Teekay Tankers Ltd.
Teekay specializes in Aframax and Suezmax tankers, with a strong safety record and a focus on Atlantic Basin trades.
Key Trends in the Tanker Shipping Industry (2025)
1. Geopolitical Shifts
- Red Sea disruptions and Russian oil sanctions have rerouted global tanker traffic.
- Longer voyages are increasing ton-mile demand for crude and product tankers.
2. Environmental Compliance
- IMO’s CII and EEXI regulations are accelerating the retirement of older tankers.
- Companies with eco-efficient tanker fleets are gaining a competitive edge.
3. Limited Newbuild Capacity
- Shipyards are fully booked through 2027, especially for dual-fuel and LNG tankers.
- Secondhand tanker values are rising due to constrained supply.
4. Financial Strategy
- Some operators favor the spot market to capitalize on high rates.
- Others, like TEN and Maran, prefer long-term charters for revenue stability.
Outlook for Tanker Shipping Companies
The outlook for tanker shipping companies in 2025 remains strong. With limited fleet growth, rising energy demand, and evolving trade routes, the top tanker operators are well-positioned to benefit. Companies investing in modern, fuel-efficient tankers and digital fleet management will lead the next growth phase.
By MaritimeHub editors.
