North America
Bunker fuel demand has remained slow in Houston this week. Availability remains strong and most suppliers can offer VLSFO and LSMGO stems for prompt dates with 5-7 days of lead time.
In Bolivar Roads, VLSFO and LSMGO are also readily available for prompt dates, although deliveries depend on weather conditions and anchorage schedules, according to a source.
Bunker operations resumed on Wednesday in the Galveston Offshore Lightering Area (GOLA) after being suspended for about two days due to strong winds. But conditions are expected to deteriorate again from Thursday evening, potentially causing further delays.
West Coast ports, including Long Beach and Los Angeles, have seen sluggish demand. VLSFO and LSMGO availability remains steady, with five days of lead time recommended to avoid price premiums for faster deliveries, a trader noted.
Demand at New Orleans Outer Anchorage (NOLA) has been strong this week, with most suppliers able to meet prompt VLSFO and LSMGO requirements.
On the East Coast, prompt VLSFO and LSMGO are available in New York, though demand has been low this week.
Caribbean and Latin America
VLSFO and LSMGO availability in Balboa has improved this week as port demand decreased and local suppliers have received replenishment cargoes, a source says.
Estimated lead times for bunker fuel deliveries in Balboa have returned to around three days, a significant improvement from last week's extended 8–9 days.
The easing supply has driven a notable shift in prices. Balboa's LSMGO price has dropped by $56/mt in the past week, while the grade’s price in nearby Cristobal fell by $32/mt. This flipped Balboa's $10/mt premium over Cristobal, to a $14/mt discount on Thursday.
VLSFO and LSMGO grades are readily available at Argentina's Zona Comun anchorage. Demand for both fuel grades has picked up this week.
Wind gusts ranging between 30-33 knots are forecast in Zona Comun over the weekend. Winds at the higher end of that range can pose problems to bunker deliveries by barge.
Source: ENGINE, https://engine.online/news