Italian owner Fratelli Cosulich has contracted up to four methanol-ready chemical bunkering tankers at Taizhou Maple Leaf Shipbuilding in China.

The deal covers two firm 7，999 dwt IMO type 2 bunker vessels， with options for two additional units. The ships have been design to carry a variety of cargoes， including fueloil， biofuels， and methanol.

The company has been diversifying its bunkering fleet as part of its a multi-fuel vision， with two small-scale LNG bunker ships already in operation and recent delivery of its first bunker vessel capable of delivering biofuel and methanol.

In January， Fratelli Cosulich also ordered its first methanol dual-fuelled chemical bunker tanker backed by a charter with commodities trader Trafigura and John Fredriksen companies’ joint venture TFG Marine with delivery scheduled for the forth quarter of 2025.

The first newbuild in the latest series is set for delivery in the first half of 2026.

“This investment marks another milestone in the Group’s commitment to a sustainable and efficient maritime industry and enhanced fleet operational excellence. Our investment in alternative fuels not only meets regulatory requirements but also exemplifies industry leadership，” Fratelli Cosulich said.