ENGINE: Americas Bunker Fuel Availability Outlook (22 Feb 2024)

The following article regarding bunker fuel availability in the Americas region has been provided by online marine fuel procurement platform ENGINE for post on Singapore bunkering publication Manifold Times:

• Availability improves in Houston
• Bad weather could impact Zona Comun bunkering
• Tight availability off Trinidad

North America

Bunker demand has been strong this week in Houston and several other ports along the US Gulf Coast. Availability of all fuel grades has improved this week for prompt supply in Houston. VLSFO and LSMGO grades are generally in good supply with suppliers in the Houston area. Most suppliers can deliver stems with lead times of 5-7 days. HSFO needs a longer lead time of more than seven days.

Availability of VLSFO and LSMGO has also improved for prompt dates in Bolivar Roads. However, deliveries are still subject to weather conditions and anchorage schedules, a source says. One supplier is able to deliver LSMGO stems in the area with a lead time of five days.

Calmer weather conditions in the Galveston Offshore Lightering Area (GOLA) have allowed suppliers to smoothly carry out bunker operations after previous bad weather-triggered disruptions. Nevertheless, strong wind gusts of up to 34 knots are forecast for Thursday, which could impact bunkering.

Some suppliers in GOLA can supply VLSFO and LSMGO grades with lead times of 4-5 days.

Demand has slowed in the West Coast ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles, after demand rose last week. Lead times of more than seven days are generally recommended for VLSFO and LSMGO deliveries.

Suppliers are able to deliver LSMGO and VLSFO stems within 3-4 days of lead time in the East Coast port of New York.

Caribbean and Latin America

VLSFO and LSMGO prompt availability is normal in Panama’s Balboa and Cristobal. Several suppliers can offer stems within 3-5 days of lead time. Bunker demand has been low at both ports.

Prompt availability of VLSFO and LSMGO is tight off Trinidad. One supplier is unable to offer LSMGO and HSFO stems for delivery dates before 8 March.

Prompt VLSFO and LSMGO supply has remained very tight in Argentina’s Zona Comun. Strong wind gusts are forecast to hit the region over the weekend, which could cause prolonged delays and disruptions, a source says.

By Debarati Bhattacharjee

Photo credit and source: ENGINE
Published: 23 February 2024