UASC receives new 18,000TEU vessel, aims to increase sales in Korea

United Arab Shipping Company (UASC), a global shipping company based in the Middle East has completed its largest ever newbuilding order of 17 new vessels. The first of the 18,000-TEU vessels is about to be delivered.

Out of the 17 ship orders placed with Hyundai Heavy Industries (HII) last November, the first 15,000 TEU < MV. Sajir > has already been delivered and the rest are still being built.

The naming ceremony for its first 18,000-TEU < MV. Barzan > will be held on the 29th at Mokpo's Kumho Heavy Industries. Over 150 guests are expected, including the Board of UASC, CEOs, New Ships team, Operations, other HQ Executive Board members, along with large shippers and media. In regards to the naming ceremony, UASC's Korea agency president, Mr. Taewon Park remarked, "With the total order amount being over 2 billion dollars, it is the largest investment of UASC to date and with the completion of all ships and realignment of fleets, UASC will be in the top 10 of the global shipping industry."

Mr. Park also commented, "With all the ships being built to be able to convert fuel to LNG, not only will it conserve fuel, but [we] will be able to cut back on costs as well as become a leader in positioning ourselves as an environmental friendly shipper. For example, we are preparing to get issued the Energy Efficiency Certificate with documented EEDI for all ships."

Along with its aggressive order of new ships, UASC recently joined in the 'Ocean Three' alliance with CMA-CGM and CSCL (China Shipping Container Line), and along with Germany's Hamburg Sud, concluded a contract to share loading space, and starting in July, will venture out to the South American course that they have not yet ventured out to.

"With increasing services and loading space due to the new alliances and contracts, HQ is wanting to increase market share in Korea. It is imperative for USHICO's sales to keep going strong."Also, "I, myself have been with UASC for the past 40 years, promoting our services in the market, becoming one with HQ to induce cargo. HQ continues to look towards me to continue sales to large shippers in the Korean market,"said Mr. Park.

< Korea Shipping Gazette >