Update 16 Sep 2026, 20:34 UTC:
Recent reports indicate that Maersk is preparing to place substantial orders for new containerships, potentially doubling its newbuilding pipeline as the company aims to enhance its fleet capacity amid a competitive charter market. Analysts at Linerlytica have noted that Maersk has been exceptionally active in chartering vessels, driven by the necessity to secure additional tonnage in response to the redelivery of chartered vessels while facing limited new deliveries in the upcoming year.
Upcoming Newbuilding Program
The anticipated newbuilding program could include a significant series of orders comprising twelve 24,000 teu vessels from Jiangsu Yangzijiang shipyard, twelve 19,000 teu units from Hengli HI, and six 18,600 teu vessels with New Times shipyard. These vessels are projected to begin delivery in late 2029. Should these reports hold true, Maersk’s orderbook would swell to an impressive 1.5 million teu, representing around 32% of its existing fleet, up from 870,000 teu at the close of August.
Further speculation from analysts at Alphaliner suggests that Maersk could be seeking to expand its fleet even further by requesting offers from Chinese and Korean shipyards for an additional 20 ultra-large vessels of at least 24,000 teu. Moreover, another set of 20 ships falling between 18,000 and 20,000 teu may also be on the table. Should these additional vessels materialize, they could add approximately 840,000 teu to Maersk’s orderbook, increasing its total newbuilding capacity from 1.21 million teu to roughly 2.05 million teu. This growth would solidify Maersk’s position as the second-largest fleet operator in the industry, trailing only behind MSC.
Market Context and Competitive Landscape
The forefront of these developments is the observation that Maersk has emerged as the most active carrier in the charter market, a trend attributed to the urgent need to replace redelivered vessels amid a constricted tonnage supply. This strategic move aligns with the industry-wide trend toward scaling operations in anticipation of future demand. However, there are indications that CMA CGM may also play a role in this evolving landscape. Reports suggest that CMA CGM could be behind the order for the twelve 24,000 teu ships from Yangzijiang, as the shipyard has allegedly signed a letter of intent for this construction. Alphaliner indicated that CMA CGM has been actively exploring options for additional ‘megamaxes’ this year, intensifying the competition in the segment.
Yangzijiang has previously constructed ten MARIC-designed LNG dual-fuel vessels in this class for CMA CGM, emphasizing the growing trend towards sustainability and dual-fuel capabilities in the newbuilding sector.
Behind the Headline
This potential expansion of Maersk’s orderbook highlights an urgent response to market pressures and the strategic positioning essential for remaining competitive in global shipping. The pursuit for additional tonnage aligns with the need for operational flexibility, particularly as shipping services face inherent volatility in demand. The addition of new ultra-large vessels is not only a capacity decision but also a reflection of the industry’s trajectory towards more efficient, dual-fuel capable fleets. As Maersk explores this aggressive fleet expansion, stakeholders should monitor how this influx of capacity impacts charter rates, service improvements, and the overall market equilibrium.
