North America is experiencing tight bunker fuel availability across all grades in Houston, with lead times extending beyond seven days as of March 21. While weather conditions at East Coast ports remain stable, high wind gusts are predicted to increase towards the week’s end. Additionally, fog season in the US Gulf Coast has led to reduced visibility, potentially causing delays at important bunkering locations including Houston, Galveston, and others.
In New York and along the East Coast, bunker fuel availability remains steady. Suppliers in New York are capable of providing deliveries within 3-4 days. However, anticipated strong winds from March 20-23 could impact operations and availability of bunker barges, although no significant backlogs have been reported.
On the West Coast, ports like Los Angeles and Long Beach are currently witnessing quiet demand, with good availability of all fuel grades and recommended lead times of 6-7 days. Meanwhile, operations in the Galveston Offshore Lightering Area are progressing, but delays may occur due to strong winds until March 20. In Canada, bunker operations in Montreal could experience disruptions from March 20-24 owing to high winds.
Limited barge activity during daylight hours is contributing to congestion and potential delays. In the Caribbean and Latin America, Panama is seeing slow bunker demand this week, particularly for HSFO, which requires a lead time of at least seven days for prompt deliveries. In contrast, Balboa benefits from a shorter lead time due to more active barge operations.
VLSFO availability in the Zona Comun anchorage remains erratic, with longer lead times and expected weather delays. In Argentina, operations are returning to normal after severe weather impacted Bahía Blanca port. In Brazil, bunker fuel availability in Santos is improving, with conditions becoming favorable in ports like Santa Marta and Barranquilla, which maintain recommended lead times of 2-3 days.