The fuel availability outlook for the East of Suez region indicates varying conditions across several key ports. In Singapore, VLSFO (Very Low Sulfur Fuel Oil) lead times have decreased to 7–10 days, a slight improvement from the previous range of 8–13 days. LSMGO (Low Sulfur Marine Gas Oil) availability is stable, with recommended lead times of 2–4 days. Conversely, HSFO (High Sulfur Fuel Oil) lead times have risen to 7–11 days.
It is important to note that adverse weather could affect bunker deliveries on Sunday. Recent statistics from Enterprise Singapore show that residual fuel oil stocks in March were 2% higher than in February, even as overall inventories remained below 20 million barrels. Notably, there was a significant 53% increase in net fuel oil imports, with imports rising by 1.17 million barrels while exports slightly fell by 257,000 barrels. Middle distillate reserves also saw a 2% increase in March.
In Malaysia’s Port Klang, VLSFO and LSMGO are readily accessible, allowing for quick deliveries of small amounts. However, supply issues persist for HSFO. Across East Asia, Zhoushan has seen an increase in HSFO availability, with lead times declining from 7–10 days to 5–7 days due to weak demand. VLSFO and LSMGO lead times remain stable at 5–7 days.
In Hong Kong, all fuel grades maintain consistent lead times of about seven days, although weekend bunker operations may be affected by adverse weather. Taiwan also reports stable supplies of VLSFO and LSMGO across major ports with typical lead times of about two days. South Korean ports have lowered lead times from 4–12 days to 3–10 days, although rough weather is forecasted to disrupt operations in certain areas. In South Asia, Colombo and Hambantota in Sri Lanka have ample VLSFO and LSMGO supplies available for immediate delivery.
In the Middle East, Fujairah’s bunker supply remains limited with steady lead times of 5–7 days across all grades, while Khor Fakkan reports similar conditions. LSMGO supplies are abundant at Omani ports including Sohar, Salalah, Muscat, and Duqm.