China Issues Inland New-Energy Vessel Action Plan Through 2030

China News Service reported that China's Ministry of Transport and two other departments jointly issued an action plan for the promotion and application of inland new-energy vessels from 2026 to 2030. The policy document targets doubling the number of inland new-energy vessels by 2028 compared to 2025 and achieving preliminary large-scale deployment by 2030, with a focus on electric and methanol-powered ships alongside zero-carbon waterway corridors. The plan specifies technical routes for distinct operational settings, accelerating electric vessel deployment for passenger and cargo transport under 300 kilometers and below 3000 deadweight tons, while promoting methanol-powered vessels for long-distance, large-tonnage freight. To build comprehensive infrastructure along major routes, the plan outlines zero-carbon transport corridors across major trunk lines and water networks, setting a target to comprehensively form 3000 kilometers of zero-carbon waterway transport corridors by 2028 before expanding further by 2030. For fueling networks along the Yangtze River trunk line, the plan focuses on establishing methanol bunkering facilities at major ports and water service areas including Chongqing, Yichang, Wuhan, and Nanjing to create continuous service capabilities.

Waterborne Transportation Research Institute vice head Feng Yue observed that new-energy and clean-energy vessels account for less than 2% of total inland ships, indicating that the plan will propel the sector from demonstration projects toward large-scale development as supporting regulations, standards, infrastructure, and key equipment improve.