Italian group Amoretti Armatori has inked a double tanker order in China.

Brokers said the company's Marittima Emiliana unit has signed up for the 4,500-dwt ships at Ningbo Xinle Shipbuilding.

They will be delivered in 2020 for an undisclosed price.

The owner confirmed the deal to TradeWinds.

Advisor Marialaura Dell'Abate said: "Our company is pursuing a rejuvenation strategy of the fleet and the new vessels will replace other outdated units currently operating in the North Sea area."