International expands its marine coatings partnership in China to support the transition toward more sustainable shipping

At Marintec China, AkzoNobel’s International® marine coatings business signed a strategic agreement with Winning Shipping in China to support the maritime industry’s transition toward lower-carbon operations.

The two companies have partnered since 2016, and the expanded collaboration will see AkzoNobel supply a substantial volume of International® marine coatings for multiple drydocking projects scheduled for 2026. The initiative, encompassing six vessels, aims to enhance fleet operational efficiency and improve overall environmental performance.

Central to the latest agreement is International® Intersleek® 1100SR, the world’s first biocide-free fouling control coating featuring patented slime release technology. The solution delivers exceptional fouling control while significantly reducing hull resistance, enabling fleets to improve fuel efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

“The outstanding performance of International® has been fully validated in our existing fleet, delivering significant fuel savings and enhancing our market competitiveness,” says Yu Shan, General Manager of Qingdao Winning International Ship Management Co., Ltd.



“This is why we’ve chosen to extend and deepen our partnership. Through this drydocking cooperation, we look forward to more vessels benefiting from these advanced more sustainable technologies, jointly contributing to a greener future for the industry.”



Following the introduction of emission-reduction regulations by the International Maritime Organisation, shipping companies are increasingly focused on reducing their carbon footprints and adopting measures to improve energy efficiency. Parallel to this, China is rapidly implementing its "Dual Carbon" strategy in the maritime sector, promoting the wider adoption of more sustainable technologies.

“We’re honoured to continue and deepen our strategic cooperation,” adds Rob Leslie, Commercial Director of AkzoNobel Marine and Protective Coatings in Greater China. “Winning Shipping’s unwavering pursuit of more efficient operations aligns perfectly with our philosophy of helping customers through sustainable innovation. We look forward to providing solid support for the long-term operational efficiency and sustainable development goals of its fleet.”


In addition to the Intersleek 1100SR, International® will also supply the project with its Intercept® 8500 LPP antifoul coating, which combines linear polishing with an optimised biocide package. This is the highest-performing antifouling product within the International® range, specifically designed for deep-sea vessels.

Source: Ship Management International