The following is a statement from the International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA):
A situation arose in Singapore over the weekend where Customs decided to treat samples from bunker deliveries as “commercial goods” for import, which prevented bunker surveyors from bringing samples ashore at the Marina South Pier (MSP) and West Coast Pier (WCP). It meant bunker samples could only be brought ashore as commercial imports at the Marine South Terminal and Penjuru Terminal.
The situation was quickly brought to the attention of Simon Neo, Regional Manager Asia, International Bunker Industry Association (Asia) Ltd, as bunker surveyors warned of severe disruptions to bunker fuel testing services in Singapore if samples could not be landed.
Singapore Customs was citing regulations in place since 2011; however bunker samples have not previously been treated as commercial items for import. This interpretation of the regulation took surveyors by surprise and caused great alarm about the impact it could have on the efficiency of bunker fuel testing in the port.
IBIA’s Neo initiated discussions with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) to find out what could be done, and the MPA in turn will try to assist in setting up a meeting between Neo and the Singapore Customs authorities.
Late on Monday, IBIA was informed by the MPA that Singapore Customs have informed MPA that they have reverted back to the previous practice which allows surveyors to bring the sample ashore at MPS and WCP as before.
Although the matter appears to be resolved, Neo says he would still like to meet up with Customs on this matter to get a better understanding of how this situation arose and make sure there are no further complications.
Photo credit: Manifold Times
Published: 26 June, 2018
The company will be also taking delivery of a small launch that colleagues will use to move between bunker tankers by the end of August.
Ocean Tankers, which already owns 136 vessels, has to date placed orders for 28 tankers from various yards.
‘We anticipate an improved operating margin thanks to the rise in freight rates and sustained volumes.’
‘We will operate in the Singapore bunkering market from the Tokyo, with support from local staff at Sumitomo Corporation Singapore,’ source tells Manifold Times.
ING economist outlines factors and implications behind unexpected outcomes in the marine fuel product markets post IMO 2020.
Recorded ‘significant variation’ in base fuel prices during the months of May and June, says parent firm.
‘We intend to expand our product portfolio to include VLSFO bunker deliveries at a later stage; after investments into the MGO bunkering segment have been complete,’ Director tells Manifold Times.
Fast Energy Sdn Bhd is currently exploring collaboration with a major Malaysian bunker supply firm operating at Port Klang; the operation will be supported by CCK Petroleum upon finalisation.
Veritas Petroleum Services records numerous contaminants such as plastic, fibres, black gum, paraffins, fatty acids, and other component found in the off-spec RMK 700 marine fuel.
Course includes topics on valid and binding transactions; quality or quantity disputes; shipping issues; contract termination; claims; insolvency and others. Registration closes 25 February 2021.
All bunker vessels that have received the necessary clearance for out of port bunkering operations may do so at the stated Tompok Utara coordinates only or risk penalty, according to the MMEA.
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve and MPA is working closely with other agencies to monitor the situation, both globally and in Singapore, the port authority tells Manifold Times.
