BW LPG Ltd, a leading name in the LPG shipping industry, has recently announced a $150 million deal to sell two large LPG vessels to its Indian subsidiary, BW LPG India. This move is set to strengthen BW LPG India’s position in the market, expanding its fleet to nine carriers.
This new acquisition, which includes the vessels ‘BW Pampero’ and ‘BW Chinook’, marks an important step in BW LPG India’s growth. Currently, the company holds a significant portion of the Indian LPG market, managing about 20% of the country’s imports. The new ships will be delivered in the third quarter of 2025.
Kristian Sørensen, the CEO of BW LPG, highlighted the importance of this transaction. He noted that not only will it add modern ships to the fleet, but it will also replace older vessels. This fleet renewal comes at a crucial time, as India’s demand for LPG continues to rise.
The LPG market in India is booming, with consumption growing by 4-6% annually. Yet, local production hasn’t kept pace, leading to a greater reliance on imports. This dynamic creates a strong need for additional shipping capacity. Sørensen pointed out that the newly acquired, modern vessels will help meet this demand more efficiently, potentially reducing costs for consumers.
Captain Gaurav Bhatia, Director of BW LPG India, emphasized the need for continued government support, especially regarding subsidy schemes, to sustain long-term growth in the Indian market. This backing, he believes, will help ensure a competitive environment for local shipping companies.
The trend in the market points towards larger vessels, known as Very Large Gas Carriers (VLGCs), taking on more of the LPG import responsibilities. As newer terminals launch, these ships promise to make the supply chain more efficient, further lowering costs.
Local news and social media reactions highlight how this significant investment is viewed within the industry. Many see it as a positive step towards enhancing India’s energy security and supporting economic growth through more efficient logistics.
For more details on global LPG trends and market analysis, you can explore reports from the International Energy Agency here.
In a nutshell, the sale of these vessels reflects BW LPG’s strategic vision to align its fleet with market needs while contributing to the growth of India’s energy sector.
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Source linkBW LPG India, LPG imports in India, BW LPG Ltd, Indian-flagged VLGCs, LPG demand in India, Indian ship owners
