Northwest Europe
HSFO supply remains tight for prompt delivery dates in Rotterdam and in the wider ARA hub, a trader says. Recommended lead times for HSFO and VLSFO are unchanged at 5-7 days. LSMGO, meanwhile, is readily available for very prompt dates (0-2 days). At least three suppliers can supply prompt LSMGO in Rotterdam.
The ARA’s independent gasoil stocks averaged 10% lower in June than across May, and were at their lowest level since January, according to Insights Global data. The gasoil inventories have come down sharply from recent peak levels of 18.59 million bbls seen in February, to 16.41 million bbls in the latest week.
The region’s fuel oil stocks averaged 5% lower in June than in May.
VLSFO and LSMGO availability remains normal for delivery off Skaw, while HSFO is relatively tighter, a source says. Recommended lead times for all grades remain unchanged at 7-10 days.
Bunker fuel availability is normal in the German ports of Hamburg and Bremerhaven, with lead times of five days.
Mediterranean
Availability of VLSFO and LSMGO remains normal in Gibraltar, a source says. Recommended lead times for both grades are about 3-5 days in the port. LSMGO availability is good in Ceuta, with a supplier able to deliver stems with five days of lead time. In Algeciras, VLSFO and LSMGO availability is normal for prompt delivery dates.
Minimum congestion was reported in Gibraltar, Algeciras and Ceuta on Wednesday, according to port agent MH Bland. Two suppliers in Gibraltar and three in Algeciras were behind schedule.
VLSFO and HSFO availability is tight in Las Palmas. One supplier can offer VLSFO for delivery dates in mid-July, while others are hesitant to confirm delivery dates, sources say. Tight availability has pushed prices for the grade higher in recent days. Las Palmas, which typically prices VLSFO at parity with or lower than Gibraltar, now prices the grade $16/mt higher.
One supplier in Las Palmas expects an HSFO replenishment cargo to arrive by next week.
VLSFO and LSMGO availability is normal in the Portuguese ports of Lisbon and Sines, a source says.
HSFO, VLSFO and LSMGO availability has improved in the Greek port of Piraeus.
Africa
VLSFO and LSMGO availability remains steady in the South African ports of Durban and Cape Town, and at the Algoa Bay anchorage by Port Elizabeth, where lead times of up to seven days are recommended, a source says.
Bunkering were suspended in Algoa Bay on Wednesday due to rough weather conditions, according to Rennies Ships Agency. Four vessels were waiting to bunker at anchorage, and another three vessels were scheduled to arrive for bunkers between Thursday and Friday, Rennies says.
Source: Engine