VLCC pool, Tankers International continues to expand with the addition of Lila Global and its VLCC, Lila Kochi. This new partner reinforces Tankers International’s position as the premier provider of VLCC pooling globally.
Lila Global, a leading logistics and freight services provider headquartered in Dubai, has been actively expanding its presence in the tanker market in 2025. The addition of Lila Kochi, with a DWT of 313,798, follows a series of acquisitions across the product and crude tanker segments, reflecting the company’s long-term, countercyclical strategy in shipping.
Tankers International’s VLCC Pool currently comprises of 29 vessels, with 8 pool partners. As the market continues to evolve, the company’s pooling model remains critical in navigating complex trade routes and delivering competitive returns.
Pool partners can benefit from improved cash flow, access to longer and more profitable trades, and greater operational efficiency. Tankers International maximises earnings potential by leveraging the collective scale, data, and expertise of its entire fleet.
Charlie Grey, Chief Operating Officer at Tankers International, commented: “We are pleased to welcome Lila Global as a new pool partner. As the VLCC market becomes increasingly volatile and fragmented, the value of pooling is becoming increasingly powerful. Our VLCC pool is designed to adapt to these dynamics and deliver consistently strong performance. The addition of Lila Kochi and a partner like Lila Global supports our strategy of combining scale with quality tonnage and owners who are looking to maximise their exposure to the spot market, particularly at a time when fundamentals point to a strong freight market going forward.”
Faidon Panagiotopoulos, Head of SNP at Lila Global commented: ”Our strategic return to the tanker sector aligns perfectly with Tankers International’s commitment to operating VLCCs in a safe and efficient manner, irrespective of market conditions. We are confident that this new partnership will benefit all pool members and assist them to maximise shareholder returns, by utilising quality assets regardless of age.”
By pooling vessels, owners benefit from the commercial advantages of spot trading, by professional management, operational efficiency, and risk diversification. This model offers scale-driven returns and a more stable earnings profile, while preserving the upside that time charters often limit.
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