Venezuelan energy company PDVSA is reportedly in discussions with shipyards to build a slew of crude oil tankers.
It seems to be proceeding with newbuilding program as new ship prices hit the historical low and ship designs improve.
The state-owned firm is mulling an order for six suezmax tankers with an Asian shipyard.
PDVSA has already approached major shipyards in Korea and China.
Meanwhile, another oil major BP recently ordered up to 21 aframax and suezmax tankers at STX Offshore & Shipbuilding in Korea.