A new study published by International Maritime Associates (Washington D.C., USA) predicts a major increase in orders for floating production systems over the next five years. This business study consists of three reports issued in April, July and November 2005. The recent report provides a detailed forecast of the number of FPSOs, TLPs, Semis, Spars and FSOs needed through 2010 to satisfy increasing development of deepwater fields.

The reports are designed to support business planning and market positioning efforts of companies active in this dynamic, growing offshore sector. Each 80 to 110 page report provides objective, timely information on:

• floating production systems in operation and on order --- location, owner/operator, principal characteristics, builder, etc.
• projects in the planning, design or bidding stage involving floaters --- operator, field characteristics, likely floater choice, order timing, etc.
• underlying business conditions driving future requirements for floating production systems --- offshore E&P outlook, deepwater development trends, etc.
• technology and industry developments --- new floater technology, floater redeployment issues, lease vs. ownership of production units, alliances, etc.

It is expected to see orders for 103 to 130 production floaters over the next five years. This figure includes 75 to 95 additional units that will be purpose-built or converted from existing hulls and 28 to 35 redeployments of existing units. These orders are expected to generate capital expenditures of $35 to 44 billion over the five year period. In addition, orders for 25 to 35 FSOs will generate another $1.5 billion in conversion/construction capex.