Low-profile owner China Peace’s newbuilding programme at DSME seems to still be intact despite the market buzzing with rumours that the company has canned the six very large gas carriers (VLGCs) it has on order at the South Korean yard.

Financing problems are suggested as the main reason for the rumoured cancellation. Sources say the Chinese government has refused to fund the vessels, as it advocates Chinese-built ships to carry Chinese cargoes, especially for state-owned companies.