Turkish outfit Stella Tanker Gemi İşletmeciliği (Stella Tanker Ship Management) has ordered up to four new chemical tankers in China， marking its first major fleet expansion move.

The Izmir-based company， which currently manages a single vessel — the 2009-built， 9，000 dwt Unda — has signed a deal with Zhejiang Yongxin Shipping for three 7，300 dwt duplex stainless steel newbuilds. An option for a fourth unit has also been agreed.

“The agreement represents a critical step in Stella Tanker’s growth strategy and long-term investment commitment to the global shipping industry，” the company noted.

No price has been divulged for the vessels set to deliver in 2027.

Stella Gemi said the newbuilds will be fitted with environmentally friendly technologies to cut fuel consumption and emissions， offering improved efficiency and operational flexibility， and that the designs comply fully with the latest International Maritime Organization regulations.