Mining giant Fortescue has signed an agreement with CMB.TECH to charter up to 12 ammonia-capable bulk carriers, marking a major shift toward adopting green ammonia as a viable, zero-emissions shipping fuel.
Under the agreement, Fortescue will charter the fleet of 12 Newcastlemax dry bulk vessels from Bocimar, the dry bulk shipping arm of CMB.TECH.
Up to three of the 210,000 deadweight tonne carriers will arrive fitted with dual-fuel ammonia engines, slated to enter service by the end of 2026.
The remaining nine vessels will be built ammonia-ready, allowing for a seamless retrofitted conversion to run on the clean fuel down the track.
If powered entirely by green ammonia, the combined fleet is projected to slash carbon dioxide emissions by roughly 250,000 tonnes every year when compared to standard marine fuels.
Fortescue Director of Integrated Operations, Katie Charuga, emphasised that the shipping industry needs immediate action rather than empty promises.
“Green ammonia is one of the clearest pathways to reducing carbon dioxide emissions from shipping, and these vessels represent a practical step towards that future,” Charuga said.
She added that following the success of Fortescue’s Green Pioneer demonstration vessel, the next major hurdle is scaling up production and commercial use.
“By investing in ammonia-capable vessels and working with partners who share our ambition, we are helping create demand for green ammonia and supporting the technologies needed to reduce emissions from global shipping.”
CMB.TECH CEO Alexander Saverys praised the two-decade partnership between Fortescue and Bocimar, noting that the agreement proves the maritime sector can decarbonise at scale despite industry widespread doubts.
“This agreement marks an important step in showcasing ammonia as a viable marine fuel and advancing the transition to zero-emission shipping,” Saverys said.
“It also sends a powerful signal to the market, particularly at a time when there is doubt about the decarbonisation of shipping: our sector can decarbonise at scale.
“It just takes like-minded, determined partners who walk the talk.”