Japan’s Namura Shipbuilding is to make its debut in the VLGC sector with an order for two dual-fuel VLGC newbuildings from Mitsui OSK Lines subsidiary Phoenix Tankers.

The Japanese shipping giant disclosed that Singapore-based Phoenix Tankers had signed a deal with Namura for two 87,000-cbm gas carriers that would be used to transport LPG and ammonia.

The contract marks Namura's entry into the VLGC business.