Korea and China Compete on 'World Firsts' and 'World's Largest' in High-Value Ship Orders, Expanding to Ammonia

South Korea and China are locked in intense competition to dominate the high-value shipbuilding market, with the battleground now expanding to include vessels designed for ammonia, a key carbon-free energy source.

This rivalry, previously centered on liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers, has shifted to encompass ships that either transport liquefied ammonia or utilize it as a propulsion fuel. Both nations are vying for supremacy in constructing these advanced vessels, signaling a significant evolution in the global shipbuilding industry's focus.

The competition specifically targets the construction of very large ammonia carriers (VLACs) and ships equipped with ammonia-fueled engines. This strategic push reflects the growing global demand for cleaner shipping solutions and positions South Korea and China at the forefront of developing and manufacturing the next generation of eco-friendly maritime technology.