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South African bunker association voices concerns on new STS rules

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BIASA says the ‘disproportionate focus’ on offshore bunkering activities in Algoa Bay overlooks the broader environmental risk posed by 1,500 vessels calling annually at Ports of Elizabeth and Ngqura.
MarineTraffic / Sawa Muratov

The Bunker Industry Association of South Africa (BIASA) on Friday (29 August) noted with concern the gazetting of new Offshore Ship-To-Ship (STS) regulations by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries & the Environment (DFFE) on 28 August, 2025.

South Africa’s government introduced a new regulatory framework for offshore ship-to-ship (STS) transfers including bunkering, imposing stiff penalties to prevent pollution, protect its coastal ecosystems and the endangered African penguins.

As representatives of a highly regulated industry, BIASA and its members are committed to responsible environmental stewardship and full compliance with both local and international legislation. 

“We believe it is vital that any regulations governing Offshore STS operations align with the principles of fair competition and a free market, ensuring equal opportunity for all potential operators and supporting open market dynamics,” BIASA said in a statement.  

“We are concerned that, given the limited time allowed by DFFE for reviewing submissions made by stakeholders in July 2025, the final regulations do not reflect key recommendations—particularly regarding proposed restrictions on the number of operators and STS tankers.

“Furthermore, a disproportionate focus on offshore bunkering activities in Algoa Bay overlooks the broader environmental risk posed by approximately 1,500 vessels calling annually at the Ports of Elizabeth and Ngqura, including that of underwater noise which is a key focus in the regulations.”

BIASA said it is actively engaging with industry stakeholders and legal advisors to determine an appropriate course of action. 

“We are confident that environmental protection and the sustainable growth of South Africa’s maritime sector can—and must—go hand in hand,” the association added. 

Related: South Africa imposes stricter rules on bunkering and STS to protect endangered penguins

 

Photo credit: MarineTraffic / Sawa Muratov
Published: 1 September, 2025

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