The "Xinfu124", a 175,000-cubic-meter liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier built by Jiangsu Yangzi Xinfu Shipbuilding in Taixing, embarked on its ocean trials on Nov 20, under the coordination and support of maritime authorities.
This event marks a substantial breakthrough for China's private shipbuilding enterprises in mastering the construction of LNG carriers.

The "Xinfu124", constructed by Taixing-based Jiangsu Yangzi Xinfu Shipbuilding, begins ocean trials on Nov 20. [Photo/IC]
The "Xinfu124" boasts impressive dimensions, with an overall length of 297 meters, a beam width of 46 m, and a depth of 26.5 m. It is equipped with a dual-engine, dual-propeller propulsion system and has a daily evaporation rate of merely 0.085 percent, adhering to the most stringent international emission standards. This vessel is China's first ultra-large LNG carrier constructed by a private enterprise.
Looking ahead, Yangzi Xinfu has ambitious plans for 2025, aiming to deliver nine vessels totaling 1.3 million deadweight tons (DWTs), including one 32,000 DWT bulk carrier and eight 16,000 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent unit) dual-fuel container ships.
The company anticipates annual sales revenue exceeding 10 billion yuan ($1.4 billion) and tax contributions surpassing 700 million yuan. From January to September of this year, Yangzi Xinfu has already delivered seven vessels, generating 8.05 billion yuan in revenue.
As of now, Yangzi Xinfu holds orders for 46 vessels totaling 7.7 million DWT, with a contract value of nearly $8.9 billion. The construction schedule is fully booked until May 2029, reflecting strong market demand and confidence in Yangzi Xinfu's capabilities.