Brokers said the Singapore-based company had contracted a 37,300-dwt bulker at the yard, but no delivery date was given.

The deal would be the Japanese shipbuilder's first new order since July.

It is already building a 37,300-dwt vessel for the owner, which is due for delivery in 2015 and was ordered in 2012.

A spokeswoman for Pacific Carriers was not immediately available to comment.