TS Lines returns to Mawei Shipyard for fresh boxship tonnage

TS Lines returns to Mawei Shipyard for fresh boxship tonnage


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TS Lines Expands Fleet with New 2,900 TEU Containerships at Mawei Shipyard

Taiwanese carrier TS Lines is accelerating its fleet renewal strategy by ordering a new series of 2,900 TEU containerships from China’s Fujian Mawei Shipyard. The agreement covers two firm vessels with options for two more, strengthening the company’s position in the highly competitive intra-Asia trades.

This expansion comes at a time when regional sea freight demand continues to rise, driven by rapid e-commerce growth, shifting supply chains, and increased short-sea connectivity across Southeast Asia. Adding modern tonnage enables TS Lines to improve efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and offer more reliable schedules on its core Asian routes.

A Renewed Partnership with Mawei Shipyard

TS Lines’ latest order extends a collaboration that began in 2021, when the carrier commissioned Mawei to build a series of 1,100 TEU and 2,900 TEU vessels. Those ships, delivered by early 2024, represented the largest containership programme ever built at the Fujian yard.

The success of that project has prompted TS Lines to return for new capacity, reinforcing Mawei's reputation as a rising builder in the feeder and mid-size containership segment.

Fleet Growth Across Multiple Vessel Sizes

TS Lines currently ranks as the world’s 20th-largest liner operator, managing around 40 vessels across intra-Asia services. To keep pace with rising demand, the company has been investing across several vessel classes.

Earlier this year, TS Lines placed additional orders for 5,000–5,300 TEU ships at Huangpu Wenchong Shipbuilding, with deliveries scheduled for 2028–2029. Together, these investments represent a multi-year plan to expand and modernise the carrier’s fleet while improving operational resilience.

Mawei Shipyard Gains Traction Among Global Owners

Fujian Mawei Shipyard is attracting growing interest from international owners. Companies such as Eastern Pacific Shipping and MPC Container Ships have also been linked to new orders, reflecting the steady demand for mid-sized tonnage in regional sea freight networks.

With competitive pricing and favourable delivery windows, Chinese yards continue to dominate the 1,800–6,000 TEU newbuild segment, especially as owners seek fuel-efficient ships to meet tightening environmental standards.