According to Clarksons data, 90 chemical and oil tankers of 40,000–55,000 dwt had been ordered globally by 16 July 2026, totalling about 4.43 million dwt.

China secured 45 vessels, representing 50% of the total. South Korean yards won 31 ships, HD Hyundai Vietnam Shipbuilding secured 10, and four were ordered in Brazil.

The largest programmes include 10 vessels each for YZJ Maritime, Hafnia and projects linked to TOP Ships and Rubico. Gulf Energy Maritime, Pioneer Tanker and Asyad Shipping each ordered six vessels.

On 29 July, China Merchants Nanjing Tanker signed contracts for another four 50,000-dwt chemical and product tankers at Guangzhou Shipyard International. This increased confirmed MR orders in 2026 to at least 94 vessels.

Most of the ships will be delivered in 2028 and 2029. Clarksons data shows that 85 of the original 90 vessels are scheduled for delivery during those two years.

The ordering wave is being driven by strong product tanker earnings, longer trading distances, refinery capacity shifting towards the Middle East and Asia, and demand for modern, fuel-efficient tonnage.

MR tankers remain attractive because they can serve more ports and carry a wider range of clean petroleum products than larger LR vessels.

However, the concentration of deliveries in 2028 and 2029 could create future supply pressure if trade disruptions ease and older vessels remain in service.