China has firmly established itself as the world’s leading force in shipbuilding, holding the largest share of global new construction order books. This leadership is supported by a network of advanced shipyards that specialise in constructing a wide range of vessels, including bulk carriers, oil tankers, LNG carriers, and ultra-large container ships. Below, we rank the top Chinese shipyards by their new-construction order book in million gross tonnes (mGT) and examine their role in shaping the future of maritime transport.
Industry Overview
The global shipping industry is undergoing a transformation, with increasing demand for energy-efficient vessels, LNG carriers, and ultra-large container ships. China’s shipyards have responded by investing heavily in technology, automation, and green solutions. The country’s dominance is reflected in its massive order book, which ensures a steady pipeline of newbuilds for years to come.
Top Chinese Shipyards by New Construction Orderbook
1. Hengli Shipbuilding Dalian – 20.8 mGT
Hengli Shipbuilding Dalian tops the list with an impressive 20.8 mGT orderbook. Known for its large-scale production capabilities, Hengli focuses on bulk carriers, oil tankers, and container ships. Its strategic location in Dalian provides direct access to international shipping routes, making it a critical hub for global trade.
Hengli Shipbuilding Dalian originated as STX Dalian Shipbuilding in 2006, once the largest foreign-owned yard in China. After STX’s bankruptcy in 2015, the facility remained idle until Hengli Group acquired it in 2022 for RMB 2.11 billion, marking its entry into shipbuilding. Hengli invested RMB 9.2 billion to create a modern, green shipbuilding base on Changxing Island, targeting annual capacity of 6.3 million DWT and 40 vessels. Today, Hengli focuses on VLCCs, LNG carriers, ultra-large container ships, and offshore platforms, positioning itself as a major player in China’s maritime industry.
2. New Times Shipbuilding Co Ltd – 14.2 mGT
Situated in Jiangsu Province, New Times Shipbuilding is a leader in constructing high-quality bulk carriers and tankers. With 14.2 mGT in newbuild orders, the yard emphasises energy efficiency and compliance with IMO environmental standards, positioning itself as a frontrunner in sustainable shipbuilding.
New Times Shipbuilding founded in 1970. It was privatised in 2001 and became fully private in 2004, and in 2006 it formed a joint venture, New Times Shipbuilding. The yard delivered its first Aframax tanker in 2008 and has since grown into one of China’s top five shipyards. Known for VLCCs, LNG dual-fuel tankers, and large container ships, it boasts advanced facilities along the Yangtze River and strong repeat clients, cementing its reputation for quality and innovation in global shipbuilding.
3. Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding – 10.4 mGT
Part of the CSSC group, Hudong-Zhonghua is renowned for its expertise in LNG carriers and naval vessels. Its 10.4 mGT orderbook reflects strong demand for specialised ships, including advanced gas carriers and container vessels, underscoring its role in high-tech shipbuilding.
Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding, based in Shanghai, was formed in 2001 through the merger of Hudong Shipbuilding Group and Zhonghua Shipyard. A subsidiary of CSSC, it is recognised as the “Cradle of Chinese Frigates and Landing Ships” and a pioneer in LNG carrier construction, delivering China’s first LNG carrier in 2008. The yard has since advanced to ultra-large LNG-powered container ships, including the 23,000 TEU Jacques Saadé class, and secured major contracts such as 16 LNG carriers for QatarEnergy in 2020. In 2021, Hudong-Zhonghua began relocating to a modern smart shipyard on Changxing Island to boost capacity and efficiency.
4. Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding HI – 8.9 mGT
Located in Shandong Province, Qingdao Beihai focuses on bulk carriers and oil tankers. With 8.9 mGT in orders, the yard benefits from its proximity to major maritime logistics hubs, serving both domestic and international markets.
5. Zhoushan Changhong International Shipyard – 8.7 mGT
Zhoushan Changhong has built a reputation for eco-friendly vessels, including tankers and bulk carriers. Its 8.7 mGT orderbook highlights its growing influence in the global shipbuilding sector.
6. Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding – 8.7 mGT
One of China’s most prominent shipyards, Waigaoqiao specialises in ultra-large container ships and oil tankers. With 8.7 mGT in newbuild orders, it plays a vital role in meeting global shipping demands, leveraging Shanghai’s position as a major international port.
7. Jiangnan Shipyard Group Co Ltd – 8.5 mGT
Jiangnan Shipyard, a historic name in Chinese shipbuilding, now focuses on LNG carriers and next-generation container ships. Its 8.5 mGT orderbook reflects strong demand for technologically advanced vessels.
8. Jiangsu Newyangzi Shipbuilding – 8.4 mGT
Known for producing bulk carriers and tankers with high efficiency and reliability, Jiangsu Newyangzi’s 8.4 mGT orderbook underscores its competitive position in the global market.
Other Key Players
- CSSC Tianjin Shipbuilding – 6.2 mGT: Specialises in medium-sized vessels and naval projects.
- Jiangsu Yangzi Xinfu Shipbuilding – 5.9 mGT: Focused on bulk carriers and energy-efficient designs.
- China Merchants HI Jiangsu – 5.4 mGT: Known for innovation in green shipping technologies.
- Dalian Shipbuilding Industry No. 2 – 5.3 mGT: A key player in tanker and container ship production.
- COSCO Shipping HI Yangzhou – 5.3 mGT: Builds vessels for COSCO’s global fleet.
- Jiangsu Hantong WING HI – 5.0 mGT: Specialises in bulk carriers and offshore support vessels.
- Guangzhou Shipyard International – 4.7 mGT: Focused on multipurpose vessels and ferries.
Trends Driving Growth
- Green Shipping: Compliance with IMO 2020 and decarbonisation goals is pushing demand for LNG carriers and energy-efficient designs.
- Ultra-Large Container Ships: Global trade growth and economies of scale drive orders for mega container vessels.
- Technological Innovation: Automation, digital ship design, and smart ship technologies are becoming standard in Chinese yards.
Future Outlook
China’s shipyards are expected to maintain their global leadership, supported by government policies, strong financing, and technological advancements. The focus will increasingly shift toward green propulsion systems, digitalisation, and autonomous vessels, ensuring that Chinese shipbuilders remain at the forefront of maritime innovation.
Data Source: IHS
