Fortescue and CMB.TECH NV have signed a landmark agreement to charter a cutting-edge, ammonia-powered bulk carrier, underscoring their joint commitment to decarbonising maritime transport. The vessel, a 210,000-deadweight tonne (dwt) Newcastlemax, will be equipped with a dual-fuel engine and is slated for delivery by the end of 2026.

This ammonia-powered ship is part of CMB.TECH’s fleet of large dry bulk carriers currently under construction at Qingdao Beihai Shipyard. Fortescue and Bocimar—a subsidiary of CMB.TECH—have collaborated on this project, marking a pivotal step in sustainable logistics. Once operational, the vessel will transport iron ore from the Pilbara region in Western Australia to customers in China and other global markets.

Fortescue has set ambitious climate goals, aiming to eliminate Scope 1 and 2 emissions across its Australian iron ore operations by 2030. It is also targeting Net Zero Scope 3 emissions by 2040, a particularly challenging objective given the emissions tied to shipping and steel production. As part of this broader strategy, Fortescue advocates for a swift transition to zero-emission fuels, with green ammonia at the forefront. Unlike transitional fuels such as LNG and biofuels, green ammonia offers a long-term solution for carbon-free shipping.

The company has already made waves in the industry with the Fortescue Green Pioneer—the world’s first dual-fuel ammonia-powered vessel. Currently docked in London, the ship is preparing for a global tour to promote the urgent need for zero-emissions shipping solutions.

Dino Otranto, CEO of Fortescue Metals, emphasized the strategic significance of the partnership: “Our agreement with Bocimar sends a strong message—now is the time to invest in green ammonia-powered vessels. The era of high-emission bunker fuel is coming to a close. We urge regulators to act decisively and swiftly. Our collaboration with Bocimar is just the beginning. The Fortescue Green Pioneer has proven that this technology is viable today. We’re committed to transitioning our fleet and driving global adoption of green ammonia as a marine fuel.”

Alexander Saverys, CEO of CMB.TECH, echoed the sentiment: “Fortescue and Bocimar have enjoyed a partnership spanning over two decades. We are united in our mission to decarbonise shipping and see green ammonia as the fuel of the future. This agreement is a key milestone in building a cleaner maritime sector and accelerating green ammonia production projects. Decarbonising today is essential to secure tomorrow.”

CMB.TECH is a forward-looking and diversified maritime group with a robust presence across the global shipping industry. The company owns and operates a fleet of over 150 seagoing vessels, including crude oil tankers, dry bulk carriers, container ships, chemical tankers, offshore wind support vessels, and workboats. In addition to its extensive shipping operations, CMB.TECH supplies hydrogen and ammonia fuels—sourced either through in-house production or trusted third-party partners—to meet the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions. Headquartered in Antwerp, Belgium, CMB.TECH maintains a global footprint with offices spanning Europe, Asia, the United States, and Africa.