Shipping industry expands dual-fuel fleet as investment tops $180b

Total fleet and orders hit 1,204 vessels.

The global shipping industry is rapidly expanding its investment in cleaner fuel technologies, according to the World Shipping Council.

As of March, 440 dual-fuel container ships and vehicle carriers are in operation, a 65% increase year over year.

The growth highlights accelerating adoption of alternative fuel technologies across the liner shipping sector as companies prepare for long-term decarbonisation.

The order book has also grown to 764 additional dual-fuel vessels, with strong uptake across segments: 78% of container ship orders and 94% of vehicle carrier orders are dual-fuel capable.

In total, 1,204 vessels are either delivered or on order, representing more than $180b in private investment.

WSC President & CEO Joe Kramek said the vessels are long-term assets designed for fuel flexibility, helping reduce risk and support global supply chain resilience.

“Continued constructive engagement at the IMO remains essential to provide the global regulatory certainty needed to scale investment in alternative fuels,” he added.