HMM invests $2.5 Billion in dual-fuel ships to advance green fleet strategy

South Korea’s HMM has announced a US$2.5 billion fleet expansion, its largest investment in seven years, to build twelve 13,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel containerships and two very large crude carriers. Contracts signed with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and Hanwha Ocean mark a major step in HMM’s decarbonization strategy as it adapts to tightening IMO and EU emissions standards. The mid-sized LNG-powered vessels are designed for efficiency and flexibility on regional trade routes, complementing HMM’s earlier methanol-fueled fleet orders. Analysts say the move signals a strategic shift from ultra-large ships toward sustainable, diversified capacity growth, strengthening both HMM’s market position and South Korea’s shipbuilding industry.