AP Moller-Maersk has sold Maersk Tankers to the private controlled holding company of the Moller family for $1.17bn cash as part of its strategy to divest its energy division.

The 161-strong product tanker operation is being acquired by the family’s AP Moller Holding Invest (APMHI) vehicle in an ownership consortium with Japanese trader Mitsui & Co, with the door open for other potential partners.