China plans world's first nuclear ship to carry 25,000 containers

China plans to develop the world’s first nuclear-powered container ship capable of carrying 25,000 containers, a project led by state-owned Jiangnan Shipyard. The vessel will be powered by a thorium-based molten salt nuclear reactor with a 200-megawatt output, classified as a fourth-generation nuclear system with an expected 40-year lifespan. Construction could begin in about 10 years, and Jiangnan aims to invest in specialized shipyards for nuclear-powered commercial vessels. This initiative represents a significant innovation in commercial shipping, which has yet to see nuclear propulsion used in large merchant container ships. The nuclear-powered ship promises several advantages, including zero carbon emissions during operation, extended range without refueling, lower long-term fuel costs, and higher cruising speeds compared to conventional ships. However, regulatory challenges remain unresolved, as it is unclear which authorities would approve the construction and operation of such vessels, making large-scale deployment uncertain. This development comes amid declining Chinese shipbuilding orders and increased geopolitical competition, particularly