RFOcean, the London-based alternative investment and commercial management firm led by Frederik Rye-Florentz, has further strengthened its presence in the chemical tanker sector with an expanded newbuild series in China. The company has added a new order to its growing fleet of 6,600 dwt methanol dual-fuel stainless steel chemical tankers at Wuhu Shipyard, located in Anhui Province.

This new deal brings RFOcean’s chemical tanker fleet expansion to eight vessels, with the latest order being a continuation of the company's partnership with Yingxing Financial Leasing. The two firms have already collaborated on the initial two vessels of this same type, and the recent expansion of the series follows a series of strategic moves in the market. The firm had initially secured four vessels from the shipyard in mid-2023, valued at approximately $80 million.

The new tankers, scheduled for delivery in 2025 and 2026, will be advanced versions of the DC electric push duplex stainless steel intelligent chemical tankers previously built for Dingheng Shipping, a major Chinese operator. These upgraded vessels are expected to reflect RFOcean’s commitment to incorporating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable solutions in its fleet, including methanol dual-fuel propulsion systems that align with the global shipping industry's shift toward decarbonization and cleaner fuel alternatives.

With a growing fleet of 12 chemical tankers and two bulkers, RFOcean is well-positioned to meet the increasing demand for eco-friendly and efficient chemical transport. The company’s fleet, combined with its extensive expertise in commercial management, is playing a key role in the global logistics of specialty chemicals and other bulk liquids.

RFOcean’s decision to partner with Yingxing Financial Leasing marks a deepening of its relationships with key financial and shipbuilding stakeholders in China, enabling the firm to further scale its operations in the region. The firm’s first two vessels of the series have already demonstrated the firm’s strategic vision for long-term growth in a competitive and evolving industry.

In addition to fleet expansion, RFOcean continues to bolster its infrastructure with Miklagard S, a ship management subsidiary located in Istanbul, ensuring high-quality, hands-on management of its vessels. The company’s global presence, which spans London, Oslo, and Istanbul, reinforces its ability to leverage international expertise and opportunities to drive future growth and operational excellence in the chemical tanker sector.

As RFOcean continues to scale its fleet, it remains at the forefront of industry trends, positioning itself as a key player in the growing market for environmentally conscious, technologically advanced chemical tankers.