London-based VLCC pool Tankers International continues to expand with the addition of Lila Global and its 313,798-dwt VLCC (2008-built) Lila Kochi. The shipping pool company for VLCCs welcomed Lila Global as a new pool partner with the vessel Lila Kochi joining the pool.
Lila Global, a logistics and freight services provider headquartered in Dubai, has been actively expanding its presence in the tanker market in 2025.
The addition of Lila Kochi follows a series of acquisitions across the product and crude tanker segments, Tankers International said, adding that this reflects the company’s long-term, countercyclical strategy in shipping.
Tankers International’s VLCC Pool currently comprises of 29 vessels, with 8 pool partners.
As the market continues to evolve, the company’s pooling model remains critical in navigating complex trade routes and delivering competitive returns.
Charlie Grey, chief operating officer at Tankers International, commented: “We are pleased to welcome Lila Global as a new pool partner. As the VLCC market becomes increasingly volatile and fragmented, the value of pooling is becoming increasingly powerful. Our VLCC pool is designed to adapt to these dynamics and deliver consistently strong performance.”
“The addition of Lila Kochi and a partner like Lila Global supports our strategy of combining scale with quality tonnage and owners who are looking to maximise their exposure to the spot market, particularly at a time when fundamentals point to a strong freight market going forward.”
Faidon Panagiotopoulos, head of SNP at Lila Global, added: “Our strategic return to the tanker sector aligns perfectly with Tankers International’s commitment to operating VLCCs in a safe and efficient manner, irrespective of market conditions. We are confident that this new partnership will benefit all pool members and assist them to maximise shareholder returns, by utilising quality assets regardless of age.”
