Singapore-listed Uni-Asia Group, an alternative investment management group specialising in maritime assets, signed a contract with Nihon Shipyard for a 40,000-dwt double-hull bulk carrier, the group’s second newbuild order.
The first order, announced on March 4, marked the group’s first newbuild order in more than 10 years.
The vessel will be constructed by Imabari Shipbuilding at the Imabari Shipyard, with scheduled delivery between the fourth quarter of 2029 and first half of 2030.
No price has been disclosed. Uni-Asia said the vessel features eco-type engine and dual-fuel ready design to allow future retrofitting of dual-fuel engines and eco-fuel systems.
According to Uni-Asia, the acquisition is expected to be funded through a combination of internal cash reserves, external debt financing and other financing arrangements as appropriate.
Currently, the Uni-Asia Group owns 9 wholly/majority-owned ships and 3 joint-investment ships. The group’s alternative investment targets are mainly handy dry bulk ships and properties. Uni-Asia’s offices are located in Hong Kong, Singapore and Tokyo.
