Top 50 Global Ship Builders

This overview highlights the top 50 shipbuilders worldwide, showcasing the leading companies known for their innovation, efficiency, and high standards in ship construction. These shipbuilders are pivotal in driving advancements in marine engineering, delivering a diverse range of vessels including bulk carriers, tankers, container ships, and specialized offshore structures.

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ShipUniverse: Ship Builder Summary
# Shipbuilder Country Description
1 China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) China Specializes in advanced naval architecture, including high-tech naval vessels, cutting-edge container ships, and innovative offshore structures.
2 Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) South Korea Renowned for its extensive range of ship types, including the world’s largest oil tankers, sophisticated LNG carriers, and mega container ships.
3 Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) South Korea Known for building state-of-the-art drillships, FPSOs, and specialized marine engineering projects, along with eco-friendly vessel designs.
4 Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) South Korea Expertise in constructing highly complex vessels such as LNG carriers, ultra-large container ships, and advanced offshore platforms.
5 Imabari Shipbuilding Japan Focuses on high-quality construction of large container ships, energy-efficient bulk carriers, and advanced VLCCs (Very Large Crude Carriers).
6 Mitsui E&S Shipbuilding Japan Renowned for innovative bulk carriers, advanced LNG carriers, and high-specification container ships, along with comprehensive repair services.
7 Oshima Shipbuilding Japan Specializes in building eco-friendly bulk carriers with a strong focus on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
8 STX Offshore & Shipbuilding South Korea Constructs a variety of vessels including advanced drillships, LNG carriers, and innovative offshore platforms, known for their durability and efficiency.
9 Hyundai Mipo Dockyard South Korea Specializes in medium-sized vessels, including product carriers, bulk carriers, and specialized vessels like car carriers with innovative designs.
10 Japan Marine United Corporation (JMU) Japan Known for building a wide range of ships, including advanced naval vessels, high-capacity LNG carriers, and cutting-edge container ships.
11 Fincantieri Italy Leading European shipbuilder famous for luxurious cruise ships, modern naval vessels, and high-tech offshore vessels.
12 Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries South Korea Specializes in building large-scale container ships, eco-friendly oil tankers, and bulk carriers with advanced technology.
13 Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction South Korea Constructs a variety of vessels including tankers, container ships, and high-specification bulk carriers, with significant repair capabilities.
14 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Japan Builds a wide range of ships including advanced LNG carriers, high-tech cruise ships, and sophisticated naval vessels with cutting-edge technology.
15 Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding China Specializes in building large-scale container ships, bulk carriers, and oil tankers with a focus on energy efficiency and environmental protection.
16 China Merchants Heavy Industry (CMHI) China Known for constructing high-tech bulk carriers, container ships, and advanced offshore platforms with modern facilities and technology.
17 Yangzijiang Shipbuilding China Specializes in building large container ships, energy-efficient bulk carriers, and innovative multi-purpose cargo vessels.
18 COSCO Shipyard Group China Focuses on constructing and repairing a wide range of vessels, including state-of-the-art bulk carriers, tankers, and container ships.
19 AVIC Weihai Shipyard China Builds a variety of vessels, including advanced bulk carriers, modern container ships, and passenger ships with high standards of construction.
20 Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding China Specializes in building high-tech LNG carriers, large container ships, and sophisticated naval vessels with modern shipbuilding technology.
21 CSBC Corporation Taiwan Constructs a wide range of vessels, including bulk carriers, advanced container ships, and modern tankers with a strong focus on innovation.
22 Bohai Shipbuilding Heavy Industry China Known for building large container ships, energy-efficient bulk carriers, and advanced oil tankers with modern shipbuilding technology.
23 Nantong COSCO KHI Ship Engineering (NACKS) China Specializes in building large container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers, utilizing advanced technology and innovative designs.
24 Guoyu Shipyard China Constructs a variety of vessels, including bulk carriers, container ships, and offshore vessels, with a focus on high-quality construction.
25 Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Company (DSIC) China Specializes in building large container ships, advanced bulk carriers, and high-tech oil tankers with a reputation for quality and reliability.
26 K Shipbuilding South Korea Builds a wide range of vessels, including bulk carriers, modern container ships, and advanced tankers with high standards of construction.
27 AVIC Dingheng Shipbuilding China Specializes in building small and medium-sized vessels, including chemical tankers and multi-purpose vessels, known for their quality and durability.
28 Zhejiang Shipbuilding China Known for constructing advanced bulk carriers, container ships, and offshore vessels with a strong focus on innovation and efficiency.
29 China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) China Focuses on constructing offshore oil and gas exploration and production vessels, known for their advanced technology and reliability.
30 Hantong Ship Heavy Industry China Specializes in building energy-efficient bulk carriers, modern container ships, and tankers with a reputation for high-quality construction.
31 Xiamen Shipbuilding Industry China Constructs a variety of vessels, including advanced bulk carriers, container ships, and passenger ships with high standards of construction.
32 Jinhai Heavy Industry China Specializes in building large container ships, innovative bulk carriers, and offshore vessels with modern facilities and technology.
33 Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI) China Focuses on constructing advanced bulk carriers, high-tech tankers, and specialized vessels like dredgers with a strong focus on quality.
34 Tsuneishi Shipbuilding Japan Known for building high-capacity bulk carriers, modern container ships, and product tankers with advanced shipbuilding technology.
35 AVIC International Ship Development China Specializes in building advanced bulk carriers, innovative container ships, and multi-purpose vessels with high standards of construction.
36 China Shipbuilding Corporation (CSBC) Taiwan Constructs a wide range of vessels, including innovative bulk carriers, modern container ships, and advanced tankers with a strong focus on quality.
37 Sungdong Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering South Korea Specializes in building large container ships, energy-efficient bulk carriers, and advanced tankers with a reputation for high-quality construction.
38 Jiangsu Eastern Shipbuilding China Known for constructing advanced bulk carriers, innovative container ships, and offshore vessels with modern facilities and technology.
39 Yangzhou Shipbuilding China Specializes in building large bulk carriers, advanced container ships, and multi-purpose cargo vessels with high standards of construction.
40 Chengxi Shipyard China Constructs a variety of vessels, including advanced bulk carriers, modern container ships, and offshore vessels with high standards of quality.
41 COSCO Shipbuilding Group China Focuses on constructing and repairing a wide range of vessels, including innovative bulk carriers, advanced tankers, and modern container ships.
42 Xinghua Shipbuilding China Builds a variety of vessels, including advanced bulk carriers, modern container ships, and offshore vessels with a strong focus on quality.
43 Guangzhou International Shipyard China Specializes in building large bulk carriers, high-tech container ships, and advanced tankers with a reputation for quality and reliability.
44 Shanhaiguan Shipbuilding China Known for constructing advanced bulk carriers, innovative container ships, and offshore vessels with modern facilities and technology.
45 Samsun Heavy Industries South Korea Builds a wide range of vessels, including large bulk carriers, modern container ships, and advanced tankers with a focus on quality and efficiency.
46 New Times Shipbuilding China Specializes in building large container ships, innovative bulk carriers, and offshore vessels with modern facilities and technology.
47 Fujian Mawei Shipbuilding China Constructs a variety of vessels, including advanced bulk carriers, modern container ships, and passenger ships with high standards of construction.
48 Wusong Shipyard China Known for constructing large bulk carriers, high-tech container ships, and offshore vessels with a focus on quality and efficiency.
49 Shanhaiguan Shipyard China Focuses on constructing advanced bulk carriers, innovative container ships, and tankers with a reputation for quality and reliability.
50 Yamashina Shipbuilding Japan Specializes in building small and medium-sized vessels, including advanced bulk carriers and high-tech tankers with modern facilities.

Ship Builder Descriptions

1. China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC)

China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) is one of the largest shipbuilding companies in the world, headquartered in Beijing, China. Established in 1999, CSSC has become a global leader in the design, construction, and repair of ships. The company’s portfolio includes a wide range of vessels such as tankers, container ships, bulk carriers, and naval vessels. CSSC is known for its advanced shipbuilding technology and extensive facilities, including several large shipyards throughout China.

2. Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI)

Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), based in Ulsan, South Korea, is a prominent name in the shipbuilding industry. Founded in 1972, HHI has grown to become one of the largest shipbuilders globally. The company specializes in building oil tankers, bulk carriers, containerships, and specialized vessels like LNG carriers. HHI is renowned for its cutting-edge technology and efficient production processes.

3. Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI)

Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI), headquartered in Geoje, South Korea, is a leading shipbuilder known for constructing a wide variety of vessels, including tankers, LNG carriers, drillships, and floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) units. Established in 1974, SHI is recognized for its innovation in marine engineering and its capability to deliver complex, high-value-added ships.

4. Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME)

Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME), based in Geoje, South Korea, is one of the largest shipbuilders in the world. Founded in 1973, DSME specializes in building LNG carriers, oil tankers, container ships, and offshore platforms. The company is noted for its advanced technology and expertise in constructing large, specialized vessels.

5. Imabari Shipbuilding

Imabari Shipbuilding, headquartered in Imabari, Japan, is a major player in the shipbuilding industry. Established in 1901, the company focuses on constructing large container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers. Imabari is renowned for its high-quality shipbuilding standards and its ability to deliver reliable, efficient vessels to clients worldwide.

6. Mitsui E&S Shipbuilding

Mitsui E&S Shipbuilding, based in Tokyo, Japan, is known for building bulk carriers, tankers, and container ships, as well as providing ship repair services. The company has a long history, having been established in 1917, and is recognized for its technological innovations and high standards of craftsmanship.

7. Oshima Shipbuilding

Oshima Shipbuilding, located in Saikai, Japan, specializes in bulk carriers and has a strong focus on eco-friendly and energy-efficient vessel designs. Founded in 1973, Oshima has built a reputation for delivering high-quality ships that meet stringent environmental standards.

8. STX Offshore & Shipbuilding

STX Offshore & Shipbuilding, based in Changwon, South Korea, builds a variety of vessels, including bulk carriers, tankers, and specialized ships like offshore platforms and drillships. The company is known for its advanced shipbuilding technology and its ability to deliver complex marine engineering projects.

9. Hyundai Mipo Dockyard

Hyundai Mipo Dockyard, headquartered in Ulsan, South Korea, specializes in medium-sized vessels, including product carriers, bulk carriers, and car carriers. Established in 1975, the company is part of the Hyundai Heavy Industries Group and is recognized for its high standards of quality and efficiency.

10. Japan Marine United Corporation (JMU)

Japan Marine United Corporation (JMU), based in Tokyo, Japan, is known for building a wide range of ships, including tankers, bulk carriers, and container ships, as well as naval vessels. Formed in 2013 from the merger of two major shipbuilders, JMU combines extensive experience and advanced technology to deliver high-quality vessels.

11. Fincantieri

Fincantieri, headquartered in Trieste, Italy, is one of the largest shipbuilders in Europe. Founded in 1959, the company is renowned for constructing a wide range of vessels, including cruise ships, naval vessels, and offshore vessels. Fincantieri is known for its innovative designs, high-quality construction, and technological advancements in shipbuilding.

12. Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries

Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries, based in Yeongam, South Korea, is a subsidiary of Hyundai Heavy Industries. Established in 1999, the company specializes in building large container ships, oil tankers, and bulk carriers. Hyundai Samho is known for its state-of-the-art shipbuilding facilities and efficient production processes.

13. Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction

Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction, headquartered in Busan, South Korea, constructs a variety of vessels, including tankers, container ships, and bulk carriers. Founded in 1937, the company also provides ship repair services and is recognized for its high-quality construction and engineering expertise.

14. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI)

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), based in Tokyo, Japan, builds a wide range of ships, including LNG carriers, cruise ships, and naval vessels. Established in 1884, MHI is known for its advanced technology and focus on innovation in shipbuilding, delivering high-quality and reliable vessels.

15. Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding

Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding, headquartered in Shanghai, China, specializes in building large container ships, bulk carriers, and oil tankers. Founded in 1999, the company is one of the leading shipbuilders in China and is recognized for its modern shipbuilding facilities and technological capabilities.

16. China Merchants Heavy Industry (CMHI)

China Merchants Heavy Industry (CMHI), based in Shenzhen, China, is known for constructing a wide range of vessels, including bulk carriers, container ships, and offshore platforms. Established in 1997, CMHI is part of the China Merchants Group and is recognized for its high standards of construction and innovative shipbuilding technology.

17. Yangzijiang Shipbuilding

Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, headquartered in Jiangyin, China, specializes in building container ships, bulk carriers, and multi-purpose cargo vessels. Founded in 1956, the company is one of the largest private shipbuilders in China and is known for its efficient production processes and high-quality construction.

18. COSCO Shipyard Group

COSCO Shipyard Group, based in Shanghai, China, focuses on constructing and repairing a wide range of vessels, including bulk carriers, tankers, and container ships. Established in 2001, the company is part of the COSCO Shipping Corporation and is recognized for its comprehensive shipbuilding and repair services.

19. AVIC Weihai Shipyard

AVIC Weihai Shipyard, headquartered in Weihai, China, builds a variety of vessels, including bulk carriers, container ships, and passenger ships. Founded in 1951, the company is part of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) and is known for its high standards of construction and engineering excellence.

20. Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding

Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding, based in Shanghai, China, specializes in building LNG carriers, large container ships, and naval vessels. Established in 2001, the company is a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) and is recognized for its advanced shipbuilding technology and high-quality construction.

21. CSBC Corporation

CSBC Corporation, based in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, constructs a wide range of vessels, including bulk carriers, container ships, and tankers. Established in 1973, CSBC is the largest shipbuilder in Taiwan and is known for its advanced shipbuilding technology and high-quality construction.

22. Bohai Shipbuilding Heavy Industry

Bohai Shipbuilding Heavy Industry, headquartered in Huludao, China, is known for building large container ships, bulk carriers, and oil tankers. Founded in 1954, the company is part of the China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (CSIC) and is recognized for its modern facilities and efficient production processes.

23. Nantong COSCO KHI Ship Engineering (NACKS)

Nantong COSCO KHI Ship Engineering (NACKS), based in Nantong, China, specializes in building large container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers. Established in 1995, NACKS is a joint venture between COSCO Shipping Corporation and Kawasaki Heavy Industries, known for its high standards of construction and innovative shipbuilding technology.

24. Guoyu Shipyard

Guoyu Shipyard, headquartered in Jiangsu, China, constructs a variety of vessels, including bulk carriers, container ships, and offshore vessels. Founded in 2001, the company is recognized for its high-quality construction and efficient production processes.

25. Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Company (DSIC)

Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Company (DSIC), based in Dalian, China, specializes in building large container ships, bulk carriers, and oil tankers. Established in 1898, DSIC is part of the China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (CSIC) and is known for its advanced shipbuilding technology and high standards of construction.

26. K Shipbuilding

K Shipbuilding, headquartered in South Korea, builds a wide range of vessels, including bulk carriers, container ships, and tankers. The company is known for its modern shipbuilding facilities and efficient production processes, delivering high-quality and reliable vessels.

27. AVIC Dingheng Shipbuilding

AVIC Dingheng Shipbuilding, based in Jiangsu, China, specializes in building small and medium-sized vessels, including chemical tankers and multi-purpose vessels. Established in 2008, the company is part of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) and is recognized for its high standards of construction and engineering excellence.

28. Zhejiang Shipbuilding

Zhejiang Shipbuilding, headquartered in Zhejiang, China, is known for constructing bulk carriers, container ships, and offshore vessels. The company is recognized for its modern shipbuilding facilities and efficient production processes, delivering high-quality and reliable vessels.

29. China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC)

China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), based in Beijing, China, focuses on constructing offshore oil and gas exploration and production vessels. Established in 1982, CNOOC is one of the largest offshore oil and gas producers in China and is known for its advanced technology and high standards of construction.

30. Hantong Ship Heavy Industry

Hantong Ship Heavy Industry, headquartered in Jiangsu, China, specializes in building bulk carriers, container ships, and tankers. Founded in 2003, the company is recognized for its high-quality construction and efficient production processes, delivering reliable and efficient vessels.

31. Xiamen Shipbuilding Industry

Xiamen Shipbuilding Industry, based in Xiamen, China, constructs a variety of vessels, including bulk carriers, container ships, and passenger ships. Established in 1996, the company is known for its high standards of construction and innovative shipbuilding techniques, delivering reliable and efficient vessels to clients worldwide.

32. Jinhai Heavy Industry

Jinhai Heavy Industry, headquartered in Zhoushan, China, specializes in building large container ships, bulk carriers, and offshore vessels. Founded in 2005, the company is recognized for its modern shipbuilding facilities and advanced technology, delivering high-quality and efficient vessels.

33. Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI)

Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI), based in Guangzhou, China, focuses on constructing bulk carriers, tankers, and specialized vessels like dredgers. Established in 1954, GSI is part of the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) and is known for its high standards of construction and engineering excellence.

34. Tsuneishi Shipbuilding

Tsuneishi Shipbuilding, headquartered in Fukuyama, Japan, is known for building bulk carriers, container ships, and product tankers. Founded in 1917, the company has a long history of delivering high-quality vessels and is recognized for its advanced shipbuilding technology and efficient production processes.

35. AVIC International Ship Development

AVIC International Ship Development, based in Beijing, China, specializes in building bulk carriers, container ships, and multi-purpose vessels. The company is part of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) and is known for its high standards of construction and innovative shipbuilding techniques.

36. China Shipbuilding Corporation (CSBC)

China Shipbuilding Corporation (CSBC), headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan, constructs a wide range of vessels, including bulk carriers, container ships, and tankers. Established in 1973, CSBC is the largest shipbuilder in Taiwan and is known for its advanced shipbuilding technology and high-quality construction.

37. Sungdong Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering

Sungdong Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering, based in Tongyeong, South Korea, specializes in building large container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers. Founded in 2001, the company is recognized for its high standards of construction and innovative shipbuilding technology, delivering reliable and efficient vessels.

38. Jiangsu Eastern Shipbuilding

Jiangsu Eastern Shipbuilding, headquartered in Jiangsu, China, is known for constructing bulk carriers, container ships, and offshore vessels. The company is recognized for its modern shipbuilding facilities and efficient production processes, delivering high-quality and reliable vessels to clients worldwide.

39. Yangzhou Shipbuilding

Yangzhou Shipbuilding, based in Yangzhou, China, specializes in building bulk carriers, container ships, and multi-purpose cargo vessels. The company is known for its high standards of construction and engineering excellence, delivering reliable and efficient vessels.

40. Chengxi Shipyard

Chengxi Shipyard, headquartered in Jiangyin, China, constructs a variety of vessels, including bulk carriers, container ships, and offshore vessels. Founded in 1973, the company is part of the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) and is recognized for its high standards of construction and innovative shipbuilding techniques.

41. COSCO Shipbuilding Group

COSCO Shipbuilding Group, based in Shanghai, China, focuses on constructing and repairing a wide range of vessels, including bulk carriers, tankers, and container ships. Established in 2001, the company is part of the COSCO Shipping Corporation and is recognized for its comprehensive shipbuilding and repair services.

42. Xinghua Shipbuilding

Xinghua Shipbuilding, headquartered in Taizhou, China, builds a variety of vessels, including bulk carriers, container ships, and offshore vessels. The company is known for its high-quality construction and efficient production processes, delivering reliable and efficient vessels to clients worldwide.

43. Guangzhou International Shipyard

Guangzhou International Shipyard, based in Guangzhou, China, specializes in building bulk carriers, container ships, and tankers. The company is recognized for its high standards of construction and engineering excellence, delivering high-quality and reliable vessels.

44. Shanhaiguan Shipbuilding

Shanhaiguan Shipbuilding, headquartered in Qinhuangdao, China, is known for constructing bulk carriers, container ships, and offshore vessels. Founded in 1972, the company is part of the China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (CSIC) and is recognized for its modern facilities and efficient production processes.

45. Samsun Heavy Industries

Samsun Heavy Industries, based in Samsun, Turkey, builds a wide range of vessels, including bulk carriers, container ships, and tankers. The company is known for its advanced shipbuilding technology and high standards of construction, delivering reliable and efficient vessels to clients worldwide.

46. New Times Shipbuilding

New Times Shipbuilding, headquartered in Jiangsu, China, specializes in building large container ships, bulk carriers, and offshore vessels. Established in 2001, the company is recognized for its modern shipbuilding facilities and advanced technology, delivering high-quality and efficient vessels.

47. Fujian Mawei Shipbuilding

Fujian Mawei Shipbuilding, based in Fuzhou, China, constructs a variety of vessels, including bulk carriers, container ships, and passenger ships. Founded in 1866, the company is one of the oldest shipyards in China and is known for its high standards of construction and engineering excellence.

48. Wusong Shipyard

Wusong Shipyard, headquartered in Shanghai, China, is known for constructing bulk carriers, container ships, and offshore vessels. The company is recognized for its high-quality construction and efficient production processes, delivering reliable and efficient vessels to clients worldwide.

49. Shanhaiguan Shipyard

Shanhaiguan Shipyard, based in Qinhuangdao, China, focuses on constructing bulk carriers, container ships, and tankers. The company is part of the China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (CSIC) and is known for its advanced shipbuilding technology and high standards of construction.

50. Yamashina Shipbuilding

Yamashina Shipbuilding, headquartered in Kure, Japan, specializes in building small and medium-sized vessels, including bulk carriers and tankers. The company is known for its high standards of construction and engineering excellence, delivering reliable and efficient vessels to clients worldwide.