Cosco Shipping Specialised Carriers is expanding its presence in the asphalt and bitumen carrier segment with an order for four newbuildings.

The Chinese company has struck a deal with compatriot Fujian Mawei Shipbuilding for a quartet of 9,000-dwt tankers.

Listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, Cosco Specialised said the order is part of the company’s “14th Five-Year Plan” strategy to diversify and expand its fleet.