Who Builds the World's Largest Oil Tankers
The world's largest oil tankers are built by a handful of major shipbuilders concentrated in South Korea, China, and Japan. These ultra-large vessels, known as VLCCs (Very Large Crude Carriers), can carry over 2 million barrels of crude oil and represent some of the most complex ships ever constructed.
HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (South Korea) stands as the world's largest shipbuilding company. Based in Ulsan, South Korea, HHI has built numerous record-breaking tankers including the Front Century, a 311,000 DWT VLCC delivered in 1998. The company remains a dominant force in large tanker construction. Samsung Heavy Industries (South Korea) ranks among the "Big Three" South Korean shipbuilders alongside HHI and Hanwha Ocean (formerly DSME). Samsung has delivered multiple 300,000+ ton VLCCs and maintains strong order books from international shipowners. China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) has emerged as a major VLCC builder. In March 2026, CSSC's Dalian Shipbuilding yard delivered a 307,000-tonne new-generation VLCC to South Korean CIDO Shipping. The vessel was independently designed and built in China, marking the country's growing competitiveness in ultra-large tanker construction. Hengli Heavy Industries (China) recently secured significant VLCC orders, winning 10 crude oil tanker contracts worth up to $1 billion in 2026, plus 15 additional VLCC newbuild orders from European and Greek shipowners. Kawasaki Heavy Industries (Japan) remains active in the VLCC space, delivering the 309,000-ton ASIAN PROGRESS VII in January 2026. Japanese builders traditionally focus on high-specification vessels with advanced technology.
The VLCC market has seen strong demand in 2026, with Chinese shipbuilders leading the order race alongside established South Korean players. Geopolitical tensions in key shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz have increased demand for large, efficient crude carriers.
Typical VLCC specifications include:
- Length: 330-380 meters (1,080-1,250 feet)
- Deadweight: 280,000-320,000 tons
- Cargo capacity: 2-3 million barrels of crude oil
- Crew: 25-30 personnel
- Speed: 15-16 knots laden
