Singapore-based Eastern Pacific Shipping has sealed a deal with China’s New Times Shipbuilding for up to 12 LNG dual-fuel containership newbuilds.

The Idan Ofer-controlled shipowner， with one of the largest newbuilding programmes， has contracted eight firm 18，000 teu vessels with options for four more.

The order follows the news of John Fredriksen’s SFL Corporation signing up for five 16，800 teu newbuilds at the same yard for about $200m apiece with deliveries expected in 2028.

Delivery details of EPS boxships were not disclosed. A price north of $200m is being placed on each of the newbuilds， industry sources suggest are back by charter deals with French liner CMA CGM.