IBIA Africa update: Algoa Bay remains a missed bunkering opportunity

Tahra Sergeant, International Bunker Industry Association’s (IBIA) Regional Manager of Africa and Global Head of Events, on Thursday (10 September) released an overview of recent market developments, regional engagement and upcoming activities across Africa: 

The past quarter has reinforced the diversity of Africa’s bunker and marine fuels landscape. Conditions continue to vary across the continent, shaped by fuel availability, changing supply routes, regulatory frameworks and local infrastructure. While challenges remain, there is growing momentum and a shared understanding of the importance of collaboration in supporting sustainable market development.

North Africa remains relatively stable, with continued demand for low-sulphur marine gasoil around key Mediterranean ports. 

The Mediterranean Emission Control Area is also influencing fuel requirements and regional demand patterns.

Across West Africa, demand remains active, with local production in Nigeria becoming increasingly important to the wider market. Lagos and Port Harcourt remain key locations, while renewed refinery activity in Ghana may create further opportunities to strengthen regional fuel availability.

East Africa continues to face more complex conditions, with availability, logistics and supplier reliability remaining concerns in some markets. Mozambique and Kenya remain important supply locations, but continued investment and greater regulatory certainty will be central to longer-term development.

In Southern Africa, the market remains stable but constrained. Algoa Bay continues to represent a significant missed opportunity, with regulatory restrictions limiting offshore bunkering activity. 

Some vessel traffic has shifted towards alternative locations, including Mauritius, which continues to report strong bunker volumes.

At the IBIA Posidonia Drinks Reception in Athens, IBIA Chair Adrian Tolson and Executive Director Alexander Prokopakis had the opportunity to discuss the support IBIA can provide to regional industry discussions with the Premier of the Eastern Cape, South Africa, the Honourable Oscar Mabuyane.

This engagement aligns closely with the activities of the IBIA Regional Board – Africa, which continues to support discussions around South Africa’s bunkering environment and the future potential of Algoa Bay.

Across the continent, IBIA is also exploring opportunities to strengthen relationships with national and regional industry bodies, including potential engagement with the Nigerian bunker association. These discussions will focus on regulatory alignment, safety standards, infrastructure and the conditions required to support market growth.

Looking ahead

IBIA is planning an Africa-focused webinar offering practical insights into marine fuels and bunker activities across the continent.

The 2nd Annual Bunker Africa Conference 2026 will take place from 28–30 September 2026 at the Boardwalk Hotel and International Convention Centre in Gqeberha, South Africa. 

This year’s conference will be held under the theme: “An Inclusive Energy Future: Bunkering & Renewables Growth in Gqeberha.”

IBIA will also support Maritime Week Africa in January 2027, continuing its engagement with the wider African maritime community.

The IBIA Regional Board – Africa and the Secretariat look forward to supporting initiatives that strengthen Africa’s bunker and marine fuels sector. We welcome approaches from organisations seeking engagement, collaboration or industry support.

Photo credit: International Bunker Industry Association
Published: 15 September, 2026