Xiangshan enhances shipbuilding infrastructure to meet increasing demand

Xiangshan county in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, has become a hub of activity in China's shipbuilding sector, with local shipyards operating at full capacity to meet surging global demand.

On Dec 11, Zhejiang Shenzhou Shipbuilding Co Ltd, based in the Daguzhi Shipbuilding Base in Xiangshan, prepared the final touches for a trial voyage of the Shenzhou 22081, a 7,999-metric-ton tanker built for a Singaporean oil company. The vessel, designed for oil transportation and marine refueling, is set for delivery by year-end.

According to the Xiangshan Maritime Authority, local shipyards have delivered 62 new vessels this year, totaling 1.12 million deadweight tons and generating a production value of 3.95 billion yuan ($543 million) - a 58 percent year-on-year increase. Of these, 28 vessels were built for export, contributing 1.61 billion yuan. With orders now booked through 2027, Xiangshan is capitalizing on a robust global shipbuilding market fueled by fleet renewals and stricter environmental regulations in the shipping industry.

Xiangshan is seizing the opportunity by modernizing its infrastructure and advancing its shipbuilding capabilities. The county has allocated coastal resources to create an integrated maritime industrial park, focusing on high-end ships and offshore equipment. Currently, the region boasts 22 shipbuilding facilities, 345 slipways, and 12 outfitting docks, with an annual repair and construction capacity of 2 million tons.

Innovation is at the forefront of this growth. Zhejiang Donghong Shipbuilding Co Ltd, for example, has invested over 70 million yuan in facility upgrades and the construction of China's first deep-sea dynamic simulation platform.

To ensure safety and efficiency, local maritime authorities have introduced a comprehensive service guide to streamline shipbuilding processes and mitigate risks. Leveraging expertise from Ningbo Zhoushan Port, the authorities have also facilitated safe navigation for large vessels at ports in Xiangshan.

"With intensifying competition, we are guiding Xiangshan's shipbuilders toward high-end and green development to enhance their global competitiveness," said Li Hongying, Chairman of the Xiangshan Shipbuilding Association.

The Shenzhou 22081 ship awaits its trial voyage. [Photo/Ningbo Daily]