Daiichi Chuo pursues tramper dreams with nine-ship order

Seoul: South Korea's Hyundai Mipo Dockyard has secured an order from Japan's Daiichi Chuo Kisen to build up to nine handysize bulkers in a deal worth $240m in total. ??The order involves firm contracts for six 36,000-dwt bulkers and options for a further three vessels. ??Delivery is scheduled between mid 2011 and 2013 it was reported in Japan. ??The investment is part of Daiichi's stated ambition to become the world's largest tramp operator. Daiichi already operates a fleet of 14 capesizes, 34 post panamax and panamax bulkers and 22 handysize bulkers. ??Daiichi has been able to secure early delivery slots because of the cancellation of numerous product tanker contracts at Hyundai Mipo. [28/10/10]