The Americas Fuel Availability Outlook provides a comprehensive overview of bunker fuel supply conditions across North America, the Caribbean, and Latin America. In North America, bunker fuel availability remains stable, particularly in Houston where VLSFO and LSMGO are easily accessible. It is advised to provide a lead time of about 5-7 days for these fuels. However, HSFO has become somewhat limited, necessitating longer notice.
Nearby ports such as Corpus Christi and Texas City are experiencing limited LSMGO supplies expected to continue until the end of the month. Additionally, the Galveston Offshore Lightering Area (GOLA) is facing high seas and strong winds, increasing the likelihood of delivery suspensions and requiring vessels with tight schedules to plan accordingly. In New York, the bunker fuel situation is favorable, with lead times of 3-5 days. However, strong winds could delay bunker barge operations.
In contrast, the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are witnessing a significant slump in cargo volumes due to new tariffs that have affected trade flows. Vessel arrivals from China have dropped steeply, with imports in Los Angeles projected to decrease by 35% over the next week, impacting bunker demand. Turning to the Caribbean and Latin America, Panama sees stable market conditions although demand remains subdued. Availability of VLSFO and LSMGO is good, with lead times of 3-6 days, while HSFO at ports like Balboa and Cristobal is tighter with longer lead times.
In Colombia, all fuel grades are in stock with quick delivery times. However, Argentina’s Zona Comun faces congestion with fewer active suppliers leading to delays in VLSFO availability. Lastly, Brazil maintains good fuel availability with expected lead times of 5-7 days, but Santos is experiencing some congestion that may persist.