Jinhai Heavy Industries of China has signed a letter of intent (LOI) for four 28,000-dwt MPP newbuildings with a domestic owner.
The Zhoushan-based shipyard does not reveal the name of the shipowner, however, sources said the newbuilding MPPs are slated for delivery in 2014. No price has been disclosed.
Meanwhile, Jinhai has focused on panamax up to capesize bulker and large tanker segments, while if newbuilding contract for MPP quartet gets to be firmed up, then it will make a first stance into these sector.
Also, Jinhai has been trying to break into the containership sector. In 2011, it came close to sealing an order from Graig Shipping for six environmentally friendly 2,000-teu boxships. But the deal failed as being unable to find charterers for the vessels.