Vietnam's Hai An Transport and Stevedoring has signed a contract for four 7,100-TEU container vessels to be built at Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Co (DSIC), a unit of China State Shipbuilding Corporation, reported Amsterdam's Breakbulk News.

The Hanoi-based carrier placed the order through its subsidiary Hai An Green Shipping Lines, underscoring a push toward more efficient and environmentally focused operations. While details of the green technologies were not disclosed, the new ships will lift Hai An's fleet capacity close to 30,000 TEU, reinforcing its position as the country's largest container operator.

The deal comes as Hai An continues to modernise its fleet, having recently taken delivery of its 18th vessel and posting its strongest quarterly profit in more than a decade. The company has been steadily expanding its footprint on intra-Asia trade lanes.

Analysts said the investment reflects Vietnam's confidence in rising trade flows and regional supply chain shifts. Larger, more fuel-efficient ships are seen as critical to meeting demand and complying with tightening environmental rules.

Choosing DSIC highlights both commercial and diplomatic ties with China, while also tapping one of the world's leading builders of large container vessels.

The 7,100-TEU ships mark a significant step up from Hai An's current fleet, potentially enabling economies of scale and opening the door to long-haul services beyond Asia.

Market observers welcomed the expansion, noting it positions Hai An to benefit from anticipated growth in Asian trade volumes while reducing per-container costs. The company's aggressive renewal programme is also expected to cut emissions and improve fuel efficiency.