At least 20 LNG carrier newbuildings were contracted in the first three months of this year at shipyards in South Korea, China, Japan and Russia.

Brokers and consultants said the total was more than had been expected as yards try to raise ­prices for LNG tonnage. But all eyes are on upcoming project business, which could see 100 full-size LNG newbuildings added to the mix for 2023 and onward delivery dates.