Iran needs LNG tankers for Indian contract

In order to export its LNG to India, Iran will require more than eight tankers, an official in National Iranian Oil Tanker Co. (NIOTC) said. “Although, detailed studies have not been carried out yet in this regard, India has expressed its readiness to participate in the manufacture of the ships”, a news report quoted NIOTC trade manager Habibollah Seyyedan as saying.

The proposed 200,000 cubic metre newbuildings will cost Iran at least $200 million the official noted. He also commented that the project assessment studies are not concluded yet since Iran?s LNG export to India do not have to be operational until 2008-2009.

Seyyedan further explained that although neither the shipbuilder nor country has been officially identified yet, it seems that in manufacturing the vessels, India will cooperate with Iran.