The market for liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers is in continuous growth, with the global fleet expanding and Greece maintaining a leading role. With demand for LNG growing, particularly in Asia, and the US market boosting supply, 2025 is shaping up as a landmark year for the sector. The Greek shipowners, with significant global market shares, appear to be driving developments in the LNG carrier sector.

According to Poten & Partners Group, the global fleet of LNG carriers with a carrying capacity of more than 100,000 cubic meters as of December 31, 2024, included 668 vessels, with another 330 on order. Forecasts for 2025 indicate that a total of 102 new LNG vessels are expected to be delivered, reflecting increased demand and market needs.

The Greek shipping industry, which is historically intertwined with the global LNG market, is expected to continue to expand its presence and dominate new ship deliveries. With shipping companies such as Peter Livanos’ GasLog highlighting the need for new ships due to growing global demand, particularly in Asia, it is clear that Greek shipowners have a strategic role to play in the growth of the industry. GasLog stresses that demand for LNG will be boosted by increased gas supply from countries such as the US, with the LNG sector poised to serve new markets and ensure supply stability.

In addition, significant reference is made to the increase in LNG trading and the need for new and more efficient ship technologies to meet market demands. These developments may lead to additional orders for new LNG carriers, as well as adjustments to the existing fleet. The oldest and least efficient ships, according to Poten estimates, could be withdrawn from the market or converted into floating storage and regasification units (FSRU), offering new possibilities in the field of gas storage and transportation.

The Strategy of Greek Shipowners

The Greek-owned fleet of liquefied natural gas carriers – LNG carriers is in second place worldwide with a total value of 32.4 billion dollars. Greek shipping’s investments in modern and efficient LNG carriers make the country a crucial factor in the distribution of clean energy worldwide. Japan is in first place with a fleet value of 40.9 billion dollars. dollars and followed by China with 26.9 billion.

In terms of orders for LNG carriers, Greek shipowners are tied with the Japanese with 19 orders each.

Greece, with its major shipping groups active in the LNG market, is expected to continue to play a leading role in the development and modernization of the fleet. Companies such as GasLog, Maran Gas, Dynagas LNG Partners, Latsco Marine, Navios Maritime Partners, Alpha Gas, Minerva Gas, Tsakos Energy Navigation, Capital Gas, Evalend Shipping maintain a leading position in the market, continuously investing in new ships and technologies that will meet the growing needs of the global natural gas trade.

In conclusion, 2025 is emerging as a critical year for the LNG carrier market. With global demand increasing, the market is expected to see significant progress in new vessel deliveries, with Greek shipowners at the forefront of this development. The combination of new orders, new technologies and strategic investments ensures the continued dominance of Greek shipping in the LNG carrier sector and the strengthening of its importance for global energy supply.