Changes in Panama bunker fuel sales from September to October:
• Total sales up 49,000 mt to 433,000 mt
• HSFO sales down 1,000 mt to 94,000 mt
• VLSFO sales up 48,000 mt to 297,000 mt
• LSMGO sales up 6,000 mt to 37,000 mt
• 0.50% MGO sales down 4,000 mt to 5,000 mt
The number of ships bunkering in Panama’s ports rose by a massive 105 on the month, to 636 in October. This was the highest figure since March this year. The average stem size was roughly 682 mt in October, down by 43 mt from September, according to preliminary figures from the Panama Maritime Authority.

In October, sales of LSMGO and VLSFO increased by 19% each. VLSFO sales had not been greater since January, while LSMGO sales were at their highest since December, last year. On the other hand, HSFO sales dropped by 1% last month.

Two barges were taken out of operation in Panama, for a total of 32 barges in October.

Despite the monthly increase in bunker sales in October, the overall sales for the first 10 months of the year were 4% lower than the same period last year. Sales of VLSFO experienced the biggest decline, with a 7% decrease compared to last year, followed by LSMGO with a 5% decrease.

VLSFO continued to be the most sought-after product, accounting for 69% of total sales in Panama. HSFO sales represented 20% of the total, and combined MGO sales 11%.

Demand for VLSFO and LSMGO improved in Panama’s ports of Balboa and Cristobal last month. Product availability was also normal, and most suppliers were able to supply both fuel grades with a lead time of 4-5 days.

Although vessels have been facing severe dought-induced draft restrictions in the Panama Canal, the terminals that bunker vessels load fuel from have not been affected by the draft issues.
Source: Engine, https://engine.online/news/general-news/panama-bunker-sales-rose-to-five-month-highs-in-august-51df