Athens-based Erasmus Shipinvest Group has turned to China for its latest round of bulk carrier orders, marking a break from its long-standing reliance on Japanese yards.

Broker reports indicate the John Su-led owner has contracted up to eight kamsarmax newbuilds at Jiangsu New Hantong Ship Heavy Industry.

Splash understands the deal includes four firm 82,000 dwt vessels and options for a further four.

The initial batch is priced at around $37m per ship, putting the value of the firm order at roughly $148m. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2028.

The move signals a shift in strategy for Erasmus, which has traditionally placed its newbuilding orders in Japan. Founded in 2010, the outfit has been steadily broadening its footprint beyond dry bulk. The company has added exposure across multipurpose vessels, container feeders, LPG carriers and tankers as it builds a more diversified fleet.