Transpetro, a subsidiary of Petrobras, has chosen builders for four handysize product tankers as part of its $278 million fleet expansion program. The project, which involves constructing 15,000 dwt to 18,000 dwt tankers, is part of a broader effort to renew and expand its fleet with a total of 25 new vessels.
A consortium of domestic shipyards, Ecovix and Mac Laren, will handle the construction following a competitive tender that attracted interest from over 20 companies. The deal is set to be finalized by the end of January.
These tankers will be the first to roll out under Petrobras' newbuilding program, aimed at bolstering its fleet for oil and derivative logistics. This initiative is designed to reduce the company's reliance on chartering and mitigate the impact of fluctuating charter rates.
The first of the four newbuilds is slated for launch in the first half of 2026, with subsequent vessels being delivered every six months until mid-2028.
Additionally, Transpetro, which operates over 30 ships and 48 terminals, will soon invite bids for the construction of eight gas carriers, followed by another tender for four MR1 tankers in June.
