The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has released an update for all licensed bunker suppliers and bunker craft operators regarding new guidelines for the transport of marine biofuels. This announcement pertains specifically to conventional bunker tankers operating within the Port of Singapore.
According to Shipping Circular No. 01 of 2025, MPA has accepted draft interim guidance concerning the carriage of biofuel blends and MARPOL Annex I cargoes.
This guidance will come into effect on March 7, 2025, for Singapore-registered conventional bunker vessels. Following this decision, licensed bunker tankers will be permitted to transport and deliver biofuels up to a blend of B30 without requiring separate approval from MPA.
It is essential for bunker suppliers and operators to conduct thorough technical and operational risk assessments for marine biofuel blends up to B30. These assessments should be mutually agreed upon by both the buyer and seller before any delivery takes place.
For those looking to supply marine biofuels that exceed the B30 blend or are not listed under chapters 17 and 18 of the IBC code or the MEPC.2/Circ.27 (Annex 11), prior approval from the MPA’s Standards & Investigation – Marine Fuels (SIMF) department will be necessary. The authority is currently conducting pilots for blends up to B100, and suppliers are encouraged to participate in these trials to evaluate the efficacy and operational processes involved.
In summary, these updated guidelines signify a progressive step towards integrating biofuels within Singapore’s marine fuel landscape, fostering sustainability in maritime operations.