A little-known Chinese company is splashing close to $300m on feeder containerships in a bid to operate a feeder trade route between China and Japan.

Dalian-based Ruiyang Shipping, also known as StarOcean Marine, has inked an order to build up to 12 newbuildings of 1,800 teu each and bought a resale newbuilding.

It is said to have commissioned Yangzijiang Shipbuilding to construct eight firm boxships for delivery in 2022, with options on a further four vessels.