The container that exploded on Yang Ming's ship YM Mobility on 9 August was reportedly booked by the Taiwanese operator’s fellow THE Alliance member HMM.

The incident, which occurred around 1.40 pm local time that day, originated from a reefer that was used to carry dry goods, according to Yang Ming.

The container has been speculated to have been carrying lithium-ion batteries or organic peroxides, which are flammable.

An HMM spokesperson told Container News: “We’re waiting for an official announcement from the authorities in Ningbo port, who are investigating the cause and extent of the damage.”