New Ice-Class LPG Very Large Gas Carrier Enhances Feedstock Supply Security for Borouge International's European Operations
A new Ice-Class Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC) has joined the Borouge International supply chain, strengthening year-round access to competitively sourced liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for the company's European operations.
The vessel, Lumi Aurora, has started operating under a long-term charter agreement and will transport LPG from North America to Borouge International's production site in Porvoo, Finland. Designed to operate in challenging winter conditions, the vessel is capable of navigating Baltic waters that can become difficult to access during periods of ice cover.
Reliable feedstock supply is a key enabler of Borouge International's European base chemicals business. By expanding its logistics capabilities with an ice-class vessel, the company further enhances the resilience and flexibility of its supply chain, supporting continuous operations throughout the year.
Lumi Aurora is the world's first VLGC built to Ice Class IB standards* and has been specifically designed to maintain access to ports affected by seasonal ice conditions. This capability is particularly important for operations in the European northern region, where uninterrupted deliveries are critical to maintaining production reliability.
In addition to increasing supply security, the vessel supports Borouge International's focus on operational efficiency. Equipped with an LPG dual-fuel engine and energy-saving technologies, the ship is designed to reduce fuel consumption and lower emissions compared with conventional vessels.
The addition of Lumi Aurora builds on Borouge International's long-standing collaboration with shipping partner IINO Lines. It also reflects the company's continued efforts to strengthen its global logistics network and ensure reliable access to feedstock from international markets.
"Strengthening our ability to source competitive feedstock from global markets supports our European base chemicals business, which is critical to maintaining our market position. This new Ice Class time charter ensures year-round shipping flexibility and enhances cost competitiveness while also contributing to a lower environmental impact across our transportation activities", said Thomas Van De Velde, Senior Vice President, Global Base Chemicals Business at Borouge International.
About the vessel
- World's first VLGC with Ice Class IB certification
- Approximately 93,000 m³ cargo capacity
- Designed for year-round service in Baltic Sea conditions
- Powered by a LPG dual-fuel engine with energy-efficiency technologies
- Will transport LPG from North America to Borouge International's Porvoo site
* Ice Class IB is a classification under the Finnish-Swedish Ice Class Rules, which prescribe requirements for vessels operating in the Baltic Sea during winter. It is assigned to vessels capable of navigating light ice conditions with icebreaker assistance.