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Hengli Heavy Industry launches shipbuilding 'future factory'Hengli Heavy Industry launches shipbuilding 'future factory'

As Chinese shipbuilders move to meet high newbuilding demand Hengli Heavy Industries has opened its second production base in Dalian.

Katherine Si, China Correspondent

January 16, 2025

1 Min Read
Hengli Heavy Industry launches operations of phase 2 expansion
Credit: Hengli Heavy Industry

Hengli Heavy Industry’s second phase expansion project, dubbed the “future factory”, has been officially opened for operations.

“Going into operation of the future factory is a milestone for Hengli to make a step forward in high-end marine equipment manufacturing sector and promote shipbuilding industry transformation and upgrading of Dalian,” said Zhao Dong, director of the administrative committee of Changxing island economic zone.

“In 153 days, Hengli Heavy Industry has completed the construction of its second phase expansion project at Changxing island, Dalian, which features higher intelligence, automation, production capacity and efficiency. The 17 super-large workshops at the base will enable Hengli to achieve large-scale production,” said Chen Jianhua, Chairman of Hengli. 

Hengli started construction of its future factory in August 2024, which focuses on the construction of VLCCs, VLGCs, mega-containerships, FPSO, floating wind power equipment, and drilling platforms.

Last year, Hengli Heavy Industry started construction for over 30 vessels.

Hengli Group acquired the moribund, bankrupt former STX Dalian yard in mid-2022 and it went into operation in early 2023. The move into the shipbuilding business proved to be extremely well-timed coinciding with a surge in global newbuilding orders, the lions share of which have to Chinese yards.

In July last year Hengli announced it was investing RMB9.2 billion ($1.27 billion) in the expansion of its facilities with the second production base.

About the Author

Katherine Si

China Correspondent

China-based Katherine Si has worked in the maritime industry since 2008 is well-connected with local industry players including Chinese owners and yards.

Having majored in English Katherine started at news portal ShippingChina.com where she rose to become a News Editor. In 2008 she moved to work with Seatrade and has since held numerous positions including China correspondent for Seatrade Maritime Review magazine.

With extensive experience in writing, research and social media promotion, Katherine focuses on the shipping and transport sectors.

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