An affiliate of China’s state-owned shipbuilder CSSC, Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding (SWS) seems to be pushing towards contracts for large bulker.

In October 15, SWS put pens on a newbuilding order to build four 180,000 dwt bulkers with compatriot Herun Group for newbuilding price of $54m apiece with delivery in 2016.

The 180,000 dwt bulkers penned lately were the 16th capesize bulker researched and developed by SWS, which is said to be eco-friendly and low-carbon vessel type saving energy by 15% compared to existing vessels as well as complying with new international environment regulations.

SWS has inked newbuilding contracts for 33 units of the same vessel size since late last year, already playing a leading role in capesize bulker market.

Meanwhile, SWS turned out to have won two firm units of 208,000 dwt newcastlemax bulkers plus two options from Greek owner Cardiff Marine on October 18.

SWS and Cardiff Marine have kept friendly business relationship for the past 10 years. With the latest newbuilding contract, both companies could reinforce the close relationship further.