Shanghai-listed Jinjiang Shipping has placed orders for up to four new feeder containerships as it seeks to reinforce its intra-Asia operations, reports Singapore's Splash 247.

The carrier, controlled by Shanghai International Port Group, has committed to two firm 1,182 TEU vessels with options for two more. Delivery is scheduled by 2027.

SUMEC Marine has been named as the preferred shipyard, with Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry and Huanghai Shipbuilding listed as secondary options in the tender documents.

Each vessel will be 147.9 metres long, 23.25 metres wide, with a draft of 8.5 metres. They will feature a design speed of 18.5 knots and be equipped with 145 reefer plugs.

Jinjiang ranks as the 35th largest liner operator globally, according to Alphaliner, with a fleet of 51 ships totalling around 56,400 TEU. Of these, 26 are owned.

The company last ordered newbuilds in late 2021, acquiring two 1,900 TEU ships from Yangfan Zhoushan, delivered in 2024. The latest move follows improved profitability and continued expansion across Asia, South Asia and the Middle East.