Alpha Gas Contracts VLGC Pair at China's Hengli Heavy Industries

## Alpha Gas Turns to Chinese Yards for VLGC Expansion Greek shipowner Alpha Gas has contracted two very large gas carriers (VLGCs) at China's Hengli Heavy Industries, according to Splash247, marking a notable strategic move as the Athens-based company deepens its engagement with Chinese shipbuilding. Shipbroking and market sources cited by Splash247 have linked the company to a pair of 88,000 cubic metre vessels, with the order attributed to Anna Angelicoussis as she continues to expand the Angelicoussis group's fleet presence in the gas carrier segment. ### Significance of the Order The decision to place the order with Hengli Heavy Industries reflects a broader trend among Greek shipowners, who have increasingly turned to Chinese yards in recent years as South Korean shipbuilders face capacity constraints and extended delivery schedules driven by surging global newbuilding demand. VLGCs — typically defined as vessels capable of carrying between 80,000 and 90,000 cubic metres of liquefied petroleum gas — are central to the global LPG trade, transporting cargoes such as propane and butane from major export hubs in the United States, Middle East, and West Africa to markets across Asia and Europe. Demand for VLGC tonnage has remained robust, underpinned by growing LPG consumption in Asia and the continued expansion of US LPG export infrastructure. Newbuilding activity in the segment has accelerated accordingly, with multiple owners moving to secure yard slots ahead of anticipated tightening in fleet availability. ### Angelicoussis Group's Gas Strategy The Angelicoussis group, one of Greece's most prominent shipping dynasties, operates across tankers, bulk carriers, and gas carriers through its various subsidiaries. The latest VLGC order signals continued confidence in the long-term fundamentals of the gas shipping market and reinforces the group's commitment to fleet renewal and growth. Hengli Heavy Industries, based in Dalian, China, has been actively courting international shipowners and has secured a growing order book across multiple vessel types in recent years. Full financial terms of the contract, including the agreed newbuilding price and scheduled delivery dates, have not been disclosed. Market sources suggest pricing for VLGCs at Chinese yards currently ranges in the region of $90 million to $100 million per vessel, depending on specification and delivery slot. *Source: Splash247*