Americas Fuel Availability Outlook
**North America**
Bunker fuel demand has seen an increase in Houston over the past week. Recommended lead times for Very Low Sulfur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) and Low Sulfur Marine Gas Oil (LSMGO) range from 4 to 6 days, while High Sulfur Fuel Oil (HSFO) requires a minimum of 7 days for delivery. Although there are reports of operational tightness and barge congestion, the port remains well-stocked across all fuel grades. Recent geopolitical tensions have not significantly affected premiums or demand for bunker fuel, according to traders, as the impact of such tensions lasts only a short time in the shipping industry.
The ongoing hurricane season, affecting the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico, will continue until November 30. In New York, there has been a decrease in HSFO demand compared to previous weeks, with lead times around 5 to 6 days. On the other hand, LSMGO and VLSFO are in higher demand, with prompt delivery options. New York may experience weather-related disruptions from high winds at the end of June, although there are no current backlogs reported.
Los Angeles sees steady bunker fuel demand, with 25 scheduled vessel calls anticipated this week. Lead times for securing fuel range from under a week to about 7 days to avoid prompt pricing. The Port of Los Angeles projects strong inbound container volumes in the upcoming weeks, marking a substantial increase compared to previous periods. **Latin America and the Caribbean**
Crude prices have dropped significantly due to recent tensions in the Middle East; however, Panama has not observed considerable market shifts.
Bunker fuel demand remains weak in Balboa and Cristobal, although all fuel grades are available within lead times of 4 to 5 days. In Freeport, Bahamas, favorable weather conditions are noted, but priority is given to cruise ships, potentially affecting other vessel fuel availability. In Puerto Rico, the first delivery of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) has been made, signaling a transition to cleaner marine fuels in the Caribbean. In Argentina’s Bahia Blanca, the first vessel scheduled to dock at a new berth has been delayed due to adverse weather.
In Zona Comun, deliveries have resumed after a brief suspension, benefiting from good VLSFO availability. In Brazil, bunker fuel demand is stable with prompt distribution of VLSFO and LSMGO at Rio Grande and Rio de Janeiro. The Port of Santos is experiencing congestion, leading to recommended delivery times of at least 7 days for HSFO, which is only available at select ports. Colombian ports such as Barranquilla and Cartagena are maintaining efficient operations with short lead times of about 2 to 3 days.