The outlook for fuel availability across the Americas shows varying trends, particularly in North America, where bunker demand remains steady. In Houston, both High Sulfur Fuel Oil (HSFO) and Very Low Sulfur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) are readily available, with suppliers advising lead times of 5 to 7 days. Low Sulfur Marine Gas Oil (LSMGO) is slightly more accessible, with lead times of 3 to 5 days.
Notably, the Houston Ship Channel expansion project has received full federal funding, aiming to widen and deepen the channel to alleviate congestion. However, offshore bunker deliveries face challenges due to deteriorating weather conditions, particularly around Bolivar Roads and the Galveston Offshore Lightering Area (GOLA), where forecasted waves could reach up to 5 feet, leading to potential delays. In contrast, operations in New Orleans are running smoothly without any reported disruptions.
New York’s bunker supply remains steady, although demand has seen a slight decrease, possibly hinting at an upcoming slowdown. On the West Coast, the Port of Los Angeles reports a modest increase in bunker demand, accompanied by a significant rise in container volumes. Authorities project further increases in container volumes over the coming week.
Meanwhile, in Montreal, high winds may delay bunker operations. In Latin America, Panama’s bunker demand has notably improved, with May sales up 14% from the previous year. Weather conditions in Balboa are expected to impact deliveries due to strong winds and thunderstorms.
In the Caribbean, the Bahamas experience heavy cruise traffic that might affect bunker vessel turnaround times. As we look toward the future, developments such as a new oil berth in Argentina may boost demand, while conditions in Brazilian ports remain generally stable despite some congestion reported in Santos.