CSBC Kaohsiung Shipyard on Track with TIPC Project

The Taiwan International Ports Corporation (TIPC)’s plan to purchase two new 5,200hp harbor tugs is part of Port of Kaohsiung’s overall strategy to both enhance Asia regional transshipment, comprehensive logistics and comprehensive vessel handling services and expand / enhance port and harbor facilities to handle the needs of increasingly large cargo vessels.

The new tugs will replace outdated models and ensure port capabilities to service post-Panamax ships. The plan is being implemented in three phases between January 1st, 2011 and December 31st, 2013. Final bid approval was made on August 10th, 2011 with an approved budget of NT$419.9 million.

A delivery contract was signed with the bid winner, CSBC Corporation, on August 19th, 2011. Blueprints were then approved according to contract. The 4 contracted construction phases include the work commencement phase (finished June 1st, 2012); keel construction phase (finished November 23rd, 2012); launch phase (tug 1: to be finished March 21st / tug 2: to be finished April 22nd, 2013); and final delivery (tug 1: to be finished July 6th / tug 2: to be finished August 7th, 2013). The project is proceeding according to schedule.

Once delivered, the new tugs will be able to handle modern container vessels up to 10,000 TEU. Their addition to the Kaohsiung Port work fleet will increase service efficiencies and safety and further enhance Port of Kaohsiung’s international competitiveness.

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Press Release, March 20, 2013