China’s Shandong Shipping has placed a $58m bulker newbuilding order with a Chinese shipyard as it continues to expand its fleet with new ships.

The government-owned company has forged a deal with Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Co (DSIC) for two 85,000-dwt bulkers.

An industry source familiar with the deal said Shandong is scheduled to take delivery of the vessels in late 2022.