LOTTE Fine Chemical has established the world’s first cross-border green ammonia trade route, connecting the renewable energy corridors of the Gobi Desert to the Port of Ulsan, South Korea. By utilizing Asia’s largest ammonia terminal, the company successfully moved green energy from a landlocked production hub in Inner Mongolia to a global maritime gateway. This operation proves the commercial viability of a multi-national, carbon-free value chain and anchors LOTTE’s role in the global energy transition.
Ulsan, March 4, 2026 – In a historic shift for the global energy trade, LOTTE Fine Chemical has successfully completed the world’s first commercial-scale import of green ammonia. The arrival of the shipment at the Port of Ulsan marks the transition of the green ammonia value chain from a theoretical concept to a verified, real-world industrial reality.
This shipment, sourced from the Envision Group in China, represents the first time green ammonia, produced entirely via renewable energy, has been traded across international borders at a commercial scale.
The Production Source: A Renewable Powerhouse
The imported fuel was produced at the world’s largest green hydrogen and ammonia complex in Inner Mongolia.
- Energy Source: 100% renewable wind and solar power.
- Technological Integration: Envision Group utilized “Physical AI” to optimize energy harvesting from the vast resources of the Gobi Desert.
- Certifications: The project holds the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) and notably achieved Grade 1 Certification under South Korea’s Clean Hydrogen Certification System, verified by the Korea Energy Economics Institute (KEEI).
Strategic Storage and Distribution
Upon arrival, the cargo was discharged into LOTTE Fine Chemical’s ammonia terminal in Ulsan. As the largest ammonia terminal in Asia, this facility serves as the primary gateway for the region’s energy transition.
The company confirmed that this inventory is earmarked for three critical “net-zero” pathways:
- Ammonia Bunkering: Direct use as a carbon-free marine fuel.
- Co-firing Power Generation: Reducing carbon intensity in existing power plants.
- Hydrogen Carrier: Utilizing ammonia as a medium for large-scale hydrogen transport.
Leadership Statements
Seung-won Chung, CEO of LOTTE Fine Chemical, said “The world is paying close attention to this first-ever commercial introduction of green ammonia. This milestone carries historic significance as the starting point for building a green hydrogen and ammonia value chain, a leading solution to address the climate crisis. We will continue strengthening the foundation for becoming Asia’s leading clean ammonia hub.”
Yimin Lou, Senior Vice-President of Envision Group, said “This vessel carries more than just ammonia; it carries our commitment to a sustainable future. Envision has proven that the green ammonia value chain is no longer just a blueprint, it is a reality. We are now capable of delivering zero-carbon fuel to the world, starting with our partners in South Korea.”
The “Blue-to-Green” Shift
For decades, ammonia has been a staple of the fertilizer industry (produced via fossil fuels). This commercial import signifies the birth of a new “Energy-Grade” ammonia market. By securing a Grade 1 certification from KEEI, LOTTE Fine Chemical has cleared the final regulatory hurdle for clean energy subsidies and institutional adoption in North Asia.
About LOTTE Fine Chemical
Founded in 1964, LOTTE Fine Chemical (formerly Korea Fertilizer Co.) has transitioned from a domestic urea producer into a global specialty chemical powerhouse. With over 60 years of experience in hazardous material logistics and the operation of Asia’s most significant ammonia infrastructure, the company is now the primary architect of Korea’s clean energy supply chain. LOTTE is currently expanding its “Multi-Channel Sales Platform” to solidify its position as the No. 1 clean ammonia hub in the Asian market.
Source: LOTTE Fine Chemcial