Bunkering and marine fuel solutions provider Global Fuel Supply (GFS) on Thursday (21 February) announced its expansion in West Africa with the launch of its first physical supply operation. 

The company’s newly chartered 5,498 dwt bunker tanker, M/V Rlo Explorer, will be stationed at Luanda anchorage in Angola. 

“We see tremendous opportunity for growth and expansion in the West African market,” said Bijan Shahbaz, Managing Partner and COO of GFS, in a statement shared with Manifold Times.

“With some of the most dedicated professionals in the industry, we are fully prepared to add even more value for our customers by delivering a smooth, seamless service that sets new standards in this region.”

At under 100metre in length, GFS said M/V Rlo Explorer is ideally suited to go alongside oil rigs and platforms, while its stainless-steel tanks can be cleaned within 24 hours—ensuring maximum flexibility. 

In line with evolving operational and environmental needs, GFS is also deploying advanced flowmeter technology for precise fuel measurement and rolling out Electronic Bunker Delivery Notes (e-BDN) for streamlined, eco-friendly documentation. 

“By positioning the M/V Rlo Explorer at the heart of a major hub, GFS aims to deliver reliability, short turnaround times, and superior customer support,” it added.

Photo credit: MarineTraffic / RLO Tankers
Published: 21 February, 2025

The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) on Friday (14 February) welcomed the Port of Ceuta’s decision to become the first Mediterranean port to implement the mandatory use of ISO 22192 certified Coriolis Mass Flow Meters (MFMs) for marine fuel supply. 

IBIA said this initiative is a positive step towards modernising the marine fuel supply industry and improving transparency.

“IBIA has long supported the adoption of Mass Flow Meters across global bunkering hubs as they help increase measurement accuracy, reduce discrepancies, and build trust between suppliers and buyers,” it said in a statement. 

 “While this is a step forward, IBIA also highlights the importance of having the right regulations and procedures in place to make sure the transition to MFMs is smooth and consistent across the industry.”

IBIA added clear guidelines and solid processes are key to ensuring the success of such initiatives and maintaining trust in bunkering operations.

“This development is in line with IBIA’s ongoing push to see bunker licensing schemes, ideally incorporating MFMs, adopted in key global bunkering hubs,” it said. 

IBIA said it looks forward to continued collaboration with ports, regulators, and industry partners to drive further improvements in transparency, reliability, and digitalisation in the marine fuel supply chain.

Manifold Times previously reported Port Authority of Ceuta mandating the use of international ISO 22192 certified and calibrated MFMs for marine fuel supply by barge.

Related: Ceuta becomes first Mediterranean port to mandate certified MFMs for STS bunkering

Photo credit: International Bunker Industry Association
Published: 17 February, 2025

The Port Authority of Ceuta on Wednesday (12 February) said it has become the first Mediterranean port to mandate the use of international ISO 22192 certified and calibrated Mass Flow Meters (MFMs) for marine fuel supply by barge, effective February 2025.

It said the device ensures a much more precise marine fuel measurement, providing greater transparency and efficiency. 

“The MFM allows the collection of the most accurate and extensive real-time data on the amount of product being transferred, reducing the margin of error and improving traceability in supply operations,” the port authority said in a statement. 

“The implementation of this technology will minimise discrepancies and disputes between suppliers and shipowners regarding the amount of fuel received, ensuring more reliable and efficient management of bunkering operations.”

“Furthermore, waiting times will be reduced, and productivity will increase, making the Port of Ceuta more competitive and profitable for all the stakeholders.”

It added introducing the requirement for all deliveries to use MFMs reinforced Port of Ceuta's commitment to the modernisation and digitalisation of the bunker sector, aligning with the demands of the global market and contributing to the sustainability of maritime transport. 

“This milestone represents a significant progress in our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational efficiency," said the Port Authority of Ceuta. 

“By adopting MFM technology, we are reinforcing our position as a leading Mediterranean port and ensuring a high-quality, transparent service for all our clients.”

Photo credit: Port Authority of Ceuta
Published: 13 February, 2025