Hong Kong-based Chinese Owner EGPN has signed a newbuilding contract with CSSC Huangpu Wenchong and China Shipbuilding Trading for two 1,900 TEU feeder containerships.

According to Xinde Marine News’ review of public information, this appears to mark EGPN’s first move into the containership newbuilding market.

Over the past few years, EGPN has built a highly diversified shipping asset portfolio, moving from dry bulk carriers into VLCCs, MRs, LR2 product tankers, chemical tankers and oil/chemical tankers. Its latest order adds another segment to that strategy: feeder containerships.
For EGPN, the 1,900 TEU feeder segment offers a measured entry point into container shipping, with exposure to regional trade, port connectivity and feeder network demand.

For Huangpu Wenchong, the order is another vote of confidence in its self-developed “Honghu” feeder containership series and its strong position in the small and medium-sized boxship market.
A versatile Chinese shipowner is taking shape — and EGPN’s next move will be worth watching.