Tsuneishi Cebu builds world’s first methanol-powered bulk carrier
Tsuneishi Heavy Industries (Cebu), Inc. (THICI) has built the world’s first dual-fuel methanol-powered Kamsarmax bulk carrier, slated for deployment for East Asia by early 2026.
Dubbed SC-443, the company said the ship was designed to significantly cut emissions as it would use methanol, known as an alternative fuel to power maritime vessels.
It has a net weight of around 82,000 metric tons.
The launch of the specialized ship supports the International Maritime Organization’s target to slash greenhouse gas emissions from ships by at least 40 percent by 2030.
“As the first vessel of its kind in the world, this milestone underscores Tsuneishi’s commitment to pioneering cleaner shipping solutions and reinforces the Philippines’ role in shaping the future of maritime manufacturing,” the group said.
The firm said the Kamsarmax bulk carrier was assembled last April at West Cebu Estate, considered the “Shipbuilding Capital of the Philippines.”
In 2023, Yasuaki Seto, the company president, said THICI would build four methanol-fueled bulk carriers for a US-based firm. At that time, the executive said THICI had the capacity to build 20 ships annually.
“We will continue to pursue improvements on productivity and increase the number of vessels built to expand our business in the future,” Seto previously said.
THICI was established in 1994 as a joint venture between the Tsuneishi Group – Japan and the Aboitiz Group. Its business includes shipbuilding, ship repair and manufacturing of outfittings for vessels.
Operating for about 30 years now, the company has launched around 400 ships and delivered over 370 vessels to key markets abroad.
Aside from THICI, the 540-hectare West Cebu Estate is also home to other shipbuilders, including Advance Catamaran Composites and Cebu Maritime Industry.
The West Cebu Estate also features a university and workers dormitory. Plans are in place to launch a commercial district here.
