April 21, 2026 NS United Kaiun Kaisha, Ltd.
NSU Signs Contract with Rio Tinto for Dual-Fuel Methanol VesselsNS United Kaiun Kaisha, Ltd. （NSU）has signed a contract with Rio Tinto for two dual-fuel methanol-capable vessels of 209,000 deadweight tonnes. The vessels are scheduled for delivery from 2028 onwards.
The vessels will be equipped with dual-fuel engines capable of operating on methanol, a marine fuel with lower environmental impact. Methanol produced from renewable energy sources or non-fossil feedstocks has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and is expected to support the GHG reduction strategy set forth by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Rio Tinto's fleet strategy recognises the potential for multifuel future. Any future use of methanol by Rio Tinto will depend on availability, safety, regulatory, and considerations.
NSU and Rio Tinto have built a longstanding relationship based on shared values, including a strong commitment to safety, crew welfare and high standards of operational performance. This transportation contract further strengthens the collaboration between the two companies and supports our respective efforts toward decarbonisation across the maritime supply chain.
We will strive to contribute to the realization of a sustainable society by strengthening our efforts to achieve carbon neutrality as set forth in the Medium-Term Business Plan "FORWARD 2030 II: Challenge for innovation and further growth with U", thereby enhancing our corporate value.
【Outline of the vessel】 Length: Approx. 299.99 m Beam: Approx. 50 m
Molded Depth: Approx. 25 m Summer Draft: Approx. 18.40 m Deadweight: Approx. 209,000 tons
Gross tonnage: Approx. 112,700 Commemorative photo after the contract signing(Ms. Laure
Baratgin, Head of Commercial Operations, Rio Tinto(left) and Kazuma Yamanaka, President of NSU)
For further information, please contact:
Yuji Ono, Capesize Group Manager TEL: +81-3-6895-6400