Kobe Steel (Kobelco) is set to open talks for more newbuildings following its order for two coal carriers this week as it plans to expand its power production capacity.

TradeWinds previously reported that Kobelco had agreed freight contracts for two 100,000-dwt coal carrier newbuildings ordered separately at Imabari Shipbuilding and Oshima Shipbuilding for delivery in 2021.

Japan’s NYK is behind the Oshima order and will operate the ship under a 20-year freight agreement, while K Line has agreed a 15-year deal with Kobelco for the other.