In January, classification contracts for eight semi-open bulk carriers were concluded to DNV class at Oshima Shipyard.
Says the head of DNV’s Maritime Service Centre in Kobe, Jan Kvålsvold: “These contracts have been secured, despite the turbulent economic times, due to patient and efficient teamwork between DNV units world wide and a strong relationship with Oshima Shipyard.”
Two of the vessels will have a European owner while the other six will be chartered to the European owner but have smaller, local Japanese owners, so-called tonnage suppliers.
Says the Customer Service Manager for Oshima Shipyard, Yo Hirokawa: “Success in the local tonnage provider market has for years been a major challenge to DNV. These vessels therefore represent an important milestone for DNV.
The country manager for DNV Maritime Japan, Johan Tutturen, took up his new position in January this year and is of course very pleased that 2009 has started off so strongly. Says Tutturen: “These new contracts to DNV class are very welcome and we are eager to use this project to demonstrate DNV’s commitment to supporting the Japanese shipbuilding industry even when the market is facing rough weather.”