SITC International Holdings is returning to its favourite shipyard, Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, to order a series of feeder containerships.

The Hong Kong-listed company is said to be seeking up to a dozen, 1,800-teu newbuildings in a deal worth a total of $264m.

Shipping sources said newbuilding discussions between SITC and Yangzijiang are at the final stage and an official shipbuilding contract may be inked over the next few weeks.