Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) has played an advisory role in two key deals for MPC Container Ships ASA (MPCC), targeting the enhancement and modernisation of its fleet. MPCC has initiated a contract with Taizhou Sanfu Ship Engineering, a Chinese shipbuilder, to construct six state-of-the-art 3,700 TEU container ships.
The first of these vessels is slated for delivery in the second half of 2028 and will be chartered on a long-term basis to a leading global shipping company, with options for further extension.
Flexible deployment options
These new vessels are designed to meet modern energy efficiency standards and are optimised for both regional and feeder traffic, providing versatile deployment possibilities. The ships are also equipped to support alternative fuels and incorporate advanced emission reduction technologies.
Simultaneously, MPCC has agreed to the sale of the container ship AS Clementina, scheduled for handover by the end of the second quarter of 2026, post the existing charter agreement. This sale is part of MPCC's broader fleet modernisation agenda, which focuses on increasing efficiency and sustainable capacity.
Focus on small to medium-sized vessels
MPCC is recognised for its ownership and operation of small to medium-sized container vessels
Based in Oslo, MPCC is recognised for its ownership and operation of small to medium-sized container vessels, primarily engaged in regional trade routes with long-term charter commitments. These transactions align with MPCC's continuous strategy to rejuvenate its fleet by leveraging cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices.
The WFW team facilitating MPCC's transactions was led by Hamburg Corporate Partner Dr Christian Finnern, with support from Associates Maximilian Hennig and Bjarne Ruthke.
Regulatory insights were provided by Hamburg partner Dr F. Maximilian Boemke, while English law matters were handled by London Partners Joe McGladdery and Charles Buss.
Long-term market and regulatory requirements
Christian Finnern expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We are delighted to have once again advised MPCC on an important step forward in its fleet modernisation programme. Throughout this year, we have represented them on a series of highly relevant transactions to support this.”
He further highlighted that these current deals demonstrate the synergy between modern newbuildings and strategic portfolio optimisation in meeting long-term market and regulatory demands.
