Iran needs 20 LNG carriers

Iran may need to place orders for 15 to 20 LNG tankers once the South Pars LNG deal goes through, according to managing director of National Iranian Tanker Company (NITC). The purchase is pending upon the final sale and export ratification of NIOC, Iran and Pars LNG contracts in Assaluyeh, southern Iran, and “For every million tonnes of LNG, one tanker is required. That is, total production of 35 million tonnes calls for 35 to 40 vessels,” Mohammad Suri continued.

“Nevertheless, there is no need to own these many ships, for many buyers are willing to play a part in transport business and have a share of the deal.” Currently, NITC owns 30 oil tankers, capable of shipping 6.037 million tonnes of crude. Orders for the construction of 28 more vessels, 11 of them to be built domestically, will increase the current capacity to 11.3 million tonnes.