As we look toward 2026, the dry-bulk and wider maritime sector face two major pressures: slowing cargo growth and an expanding global orderbook, with many new vessels designed to be future-fuel ready. For shipowners and operators, this means tighter market conditions, thinner margins, and a growing need to invest in operational efficiency.

According to Xeneta, despite some positive signs such as reduced tariffs or suspended port fees, the structural damage to global supply chains is significant and difficult to reverse—while new capacity will continue to outpace demand through 2026 (Seatrade Maritime News, 2025). For Vietnamese shipowners, this represents both a warning and an opportunity: a warning to approach newbuild or retrofit investments cautiously, and an opportunity to proactively enhance operational performance and prepare for green fuels.

In practice, key priorities should include:

• Improving the performance of existing fleets through hull/propeller upgrades, voyage optimization, and regular maintenance;
• Evaluating newbuild and retrofit options that allow fuel flexibility (e.g., LNG, methanol, ammonia) rather than committing too early to a single fuel pathway;
• Modeling carbon-cost risks and charter contracts that may include CO₂ cost pass-through;
• Building partnerships with charterers and ports that are moving toward sustainable shipping solutions.

Although the regulatory landscape from the IMO is still evolving, the next two years represent a window for preparation—not a time for waiting.

Beyond dry-bulk shipping fundamentals, investing in green-ready newbuilds is also a strategic advantage. With fuel-infrastructure development still limited, owning a fuel-ready vessel and partnering with charterers who value sustainability can provide a clear competitive edge. For Vietnamese shipowners operating in global trade, seizing this period may secure a leadership position in the years ahead.

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