Hong Kong-based Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL) is closing in on an order for a series of neo-panamax boxships worth up to $1bn, but is bucking the trend on fuelling choices to meet 2020 emission standards.

Shipbuilding sources say the company, which is now controlled by Chinese state-owned giant Cosco Shipping Holdings, is planning to order up to eight 13,000-teu newbuildings.