Second Gwadar bunkering goes operational

Port extends VLSFO network as marine fuel services expand

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan has successfully completed the second marine bunkering operation at Gwadar Port, reinforcing the port's emergence as a new marine fuel supply destination for international shipping.

The operation was carried out by Vitol through its bunker barge Marine Ista, supplying IMO-compliant Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) produced by Cnergyico PK Limited to an LNG carrier.

The successful completion, just days after the inaugural operation, demonstrates that marine bunkering at Gwadar has transitioned from a landmark achievement to an operational capability.

Last week, Pakistan completed its first-ever marine bunkering at Gwadar, extending services from Karachi and Port Qasim and establishing a bunkering network across the country's three major commercial ports.

The latest operation strengthens Gwadar's position as a strategic maritime gateway and enhances Pakistan's ability to offer internationally compliant marine fuel services. Industry stakeholders believe the development will improve the port's commercial attractiveness and support the country's long-term objective of expanding maritime trade and logistics services.

Vitol Bunkers and Cnergyico acknowledged the support of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, the National Logistics Corporation (NLC), the Gwadar Port Authority, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Pakistan Customs and other government stakeholders for their facilitation.