Pakistan successfully launches marine bunkering operations at Gwadar with first-ever refuelling

ISLAMABAD:Pakistan has successfully conducted its first-ever marine bunkering operation at Gwadar Port, enabling the country to offer marine fuel supply services from all three of its major commercial ports.

According to industry sources, the landmark operation involved the supply of 2,500 metric tonnes of International Maritime Organization (IMO)-compliant Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) to the UAE-owned LNG vessel LNG ENUGU. The marine fuel was produced at the domestic refinery of Cnergyico PK Limited, while the bunkering operation was carried out by global energy trader Vitol through its bunkering barge Marine Ista in collaboration with the National Logistics Corporation (NLC).

The successful operation marks the first time an ocean-going vessel has been bunkered at Gwadar Port, extending Pakistan's marine fuel supply capability beyond Karachi and Port Qasim. It also represents another milestone in the partnership between Vitol and Cnergyico, which has played a key role in developing Pakistan's domestic marine bunkering market.

With the successful operation at Gwadar, Pakistan can now provide marine bunkering services from all three of its major commercial ports—Karachi Port, Port Qasim and Gwadar Port. The development significantly expands the country's marine fuel supply network and enhances its ability to cater to international vessels calling at Pakistani ports.

Marine bunkering, the supply of fuel to ships, is among the most important commercial services offered at major international ports. Until recently, Pakistan had limited capability to provide internationally compliant marine fuel to foreign vessels, forcing many ships operating in the region to rely on established bunkering hubs outside the country.

Industry sources also said that the successful operation has laid the foundation for a modern marine fuel supply ecosystem in Pakistan and it will significantly enhance the commercial potential of Gwadar Port.

The development is considered strategically important as Gwadar is located close to major international shipping lanes. At a time when geopolitical tensions continue to disrupt regional maritime trade routes and conventional refuelling hubs, the port has the potential to emerge as a credible alternative bunkering destination for international vessels while strengthening Pakistan's role in regional maritime logistics, said sources.

Commenting on the development, Vice Chairman of Cnergyico PK Limited Usama Qureshi said, "The successful operation at Gwadar completes the expansion of Pakistan's marine bunkering footprint across all three major commercial ports. Vitol and its team have played an extraordinary role in making this milestone a reality for Pakistan and I congratulate everyone whose dedication and collaboration made it possible."

Highlighting the significance of the achievement, he added, "This is an important step towards strengthening the country's maritime services and providing international vessels with access to a reliable marine fuel supply network, powered by Cnergyico's high-quality fuels."

Acknowledging the support extended by various stakeholders, Qureshi said, "We are grateful to the Government of Pakistan, Port Authorities, National Logistics Cell and other government authorities. This collaboration showcases Pakistan's growing capability to serve regional and international shipping."

Vitol, Cnergyico and NLC also acknowledged the support of the Prime Minister's Maritime Task Force, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and the Gwadar Port Authority, saying their facilitation was instrumental in successfully executing Pakistan's inaugural marine bunkering operation at Gwadar Port.

The successful commencement of marine bunkering operations is expected to significantly expand the range of commercial services available at Gwadar, enhance the port's attractiveness for international shipping lines and reinforce Pakistan's ambition to transform the strategically located deep-sea port into a competitive maritime, logistics and energy hub for the region.