NYK to acquire 50% stake in Avenir LNG through deal with Stolt-Nielsen

Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Line) has agreed to acquire a 50% stake in Avenir LNG from Stolt-Nielsen, forming a joint venture focused on small-scale LNG and bunkering operations.

The transaction is being executed through Stolt-Nielsen Gas, a subsidiary of Stolt-Nielsen, and is expected to be completed by mid-2026, subject to regulatory and customary approvals.

Expansion of LNG bunkering and small-scale supply

Avenir LNG, founded in 2017, owns and operates small-scale LNG carriers and LNG bunker vessels. The new partnership is intended to expand its activities in LNG distribution and bunkering, supporting the growing use of LNG and bio-LNG as marine fuels.

Udo Lange, CEO of Stolt-Nielsen, said:

“By entering into this joint venture, we are developing our long-standing partnership with NYK Line and supporting Avenir LNG’s position in small-scale LNG supply and bunkering. NYK’s experience in shipping and logistics, together with potential market opportunities arising from the continued expansion of LNG-fueled vessels, is expected to add value to Avenir LNG, its customers, and our shareholders.

This transaction also reflects Stolt-Nielsen’s commitment to supporting sustainable energy solutions across global shipping supply chains by facilitating safe and reliable access to LNG fuel. I would like to thank and congratulate the Stolt-Nielsen, Avenir LNG and NYK Line teams for their contributions to this important transaction.”

Strategic positioning in energy transition

The agreement builds on an existing commercial relationship between NYK and Stolt-Nielsen, particularly in the chemical tanker segment. The companies said the joint venture will leverage their combined capabilities in shipping, logistics and energy supply.

Hironobu Watanabe, Chief Executive of the Energy Division at NYK Line, said:

“NYK has long built a strong relationship with Stolt Nielsen in the chemical tanker business. With this foundation of trust and proven partnership, and we are very pleased to establish a new joint venture through Avenir LNG. As the maritime industry accelerates its efforts toward decarbonisation, LNG and bio-LNG fuel has become more essential and practical role in supporting a sustainable energy transition.

Through this new partnership, we are confident that Avenir LNG will be well positioned to meet the growing demands of the market and deliver enhanced value to the supply-chain. We will continue to develop our partnership with Stolt Nielsen while advancing our initiatives in LNG and bio-LNG bunkering, contributing to a more sustainable future for the maritime industry.”

The move comes amid continued investment in LNG-fuelled vessels and associated infrastructure, as shipowners seek to reduce emissions while maintaining operational flexibility.

Joint venture outlook

Jonathan Quinn, Managing Director of Avenir LNG, said:

“We are very pleased to welcome NYK Line as a strategic partner in Avenir LNG alongside Stolt-Nielsen. This joint venture brings together two highly respected shipping and logistics groups with complementary strengths and a shared long-term vision for LNG as a marine fuel.

NYK Line’s global reach and operational expertise will enhance our ability to develop the business, accelerate the development of LNG bunkering solutions, and support our customers’ decarbonisation strategies as the market continues to mature.”

The joint venture is expected to strengthen Avenir LNG’s position in the small-scale LNG segment, particularly in bunkering and regional distribution.