Greek owner Medcare Shipping has been linked to an order for up to five MR1 product and chemical tankers at China’s Anhui Zhongrun Heavy Industry.

The Wuhu-based yard has confirmed a contract with an unnamed Greek owner covering two firm 41，000 dwt ships and three options， while shipbroking and market sources have identified Medcare as the company behind the deal.

No contract price has been disclosed. At current market indications of around $48m per ship， the firm pair would be worth about $96m， rising to roughly $240m if all three options are exercised.

The SDARI-designed vessels will feature epoxy-coated cargo tanks for IMO II and III chemicals as well as refined petroleum products. The ships will also comply with IMO Tier III emissions rules and current EEDI requirements.

Medcare currently operates three MR1 tankers and two supramax bulkers and is already waiting on another pair of 41，000 dwt MR1s from Penglai Zhongbai Jinglu Ship Industry.