The fuel availability outlook in the Americas highlights varying conditions across North America and the Caribbean and Latin America, with specific considerations for bunker operations. In North America, Houston is experiencing tight bunker availability, and supply constraints are likely to remain through the first week of April. To ensure smooth procurement, suppliers recommend lead times of over a week.
Early in the week, pilot operations resumed in Houston after a temporary pause due to dense fog and poor visibility that affected maritime operations in the Houston Ship Channel. The U.S. Gulf is currently in its fog season, causing potential delays in vessel movements and pilot services at major ports. In New York, the fuel supply remains stable, though suppliers advise placing orders slightly in advance with about seven days of lead time to avoid sudden price hikes.
The West Coast’s ports, particularly Los Angeles and Long Beach, are well-supplied; however, demand has been weak, with no firm inquiries reported in the past week. Nonetheless, weather conditions are generally favorable for bunker deliveries, although suppliers still recommend a lead time of 6-7 days. The Galveston Offshore Lightering Area (GOLA) is currently facing potential delivery suspensions due to rough weather, with disruptions expected until March 30.
Similarly, Montreal’s bunker operations might encounter delays due to strong winds during the same period. Scheduling flexibility remains a concern since bunker barges operate only during daylight hours. In the Caribbean and Latin America, Panama enjoys stable bunker availability with consistent supply across all fuel grades.
Suppliers suggest at least seven days of lead time for deliveries in Balboa and Cristobal. However, VLSFO supply at the Zona Comun anchorage is tight, with lead times of about 10 days. A refinery in the region is attempting to clear excess stock by offering VLSFO at lower prices, while overall demand remains stable across other Colombian ports.