Ireland-based Ardmore Shipping orders two 40,500 dwt product and chemical tankers at China's Wuhu Shipyard

Ireland-based Ardmore Shipping has signed contracts with China's Wuhu Shipyard for an order of two 40,500 dwt product and chemical tankers, while keeping the door open for further expansion. The New York-listed owner said the pair was priced at $44.9m each, with the deal also including options for two additional vessels on the same terms, giving Ardmore flexibility to scale up depending on market conditions. Deliveries are scheduled from late 2028.

The ships will be built to full IMO2 specification and fitted with MarineLine tank coatings, allowing them to carry a wider range of cargoes from clean petroleum products to higher-spec chemicals. Ardmore is also adding a package of performance and safety upgrades, though details have not been disclosed. Chief executive Gernot Ruppelt said the order fits a longer-term plan, noting "Ardmore continues to execute on a clear, long-term strategy with targeted fleet investment while simultaneously increasing capital returns."

Ruppelt added that the IMO2 assets provide enhanced trading options across a wide range of liquid cargoes, from mainstream oil products to specialized high-spec chemicals, and are well matched to the company's strategy and proven organizational capabilities. Alongside the newbuild move, Ardmore is also trimming its existing fleet; the company has agreed to sell a 2014-built MR tanker for $35.5m, with delivery set for June 2026. The sale is being positioned as part of an active approach to capital allocation.

Ardmore currently operates a fleet of around 25 ships, largely made up of MR (Medium Range) tankers. The new Wuhu orders aim to strengthen the owner's long-term positioning within an evolving global refined products and chemical trade. The wave of tanker renewal at Chinese yards has accelerated noticeably in recent months among Greek, Norwegian and Irish operators.

Key Takeaways:
1. Ardmore Shipping signed contracts with China's Wuhu Shipyard for two 40,500 dwt product and chemical tankers, with each vessel priced at $44.9m.
2. The deal also covers options for two additional vessels on the same terms; deliveries are slated to begin from late 2028.
3. The new vessels will be built to full IMO2 specification with MarineLine tank coatings, providing wide cargo flexibility across clean products and higher-spec chemicals.
4. Alongside the newbuild move, Ardmore agreed to sell a 2014-built MR tanker for $35.5m, with delivery expected in June 2026.
5. Ardmore Shipping operates a fleet of around 25 ships, largely MR tankers; the new orders aim to strengthen the owner's long-term trading position.