CBL International Limited (NASDAQ: BANL), the listed entity of the Banle Group, has successfully completed the first-ever liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering operation at Xiaomo Port, marking a significant milestone in China’s marine fuel transition. The operation supported BYD in Shenzhen and was facilitated through a physical supplier in collaboration with China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC).
The inaugural LNG bunkering underscores CBL International’s strategic expansion into cleaner marine fuels, diversifying its revenue streams beyond its existing biofuels portfolio. As the global shipping industry accelerates efforts to decarbonize, LNG has emerged as a mainstream marine clean energy solution, capable of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by around 20%, while achieving near-zero emissions of sulfur oxides and particulate matter. LNG bunkering can also lower fuel costs by an estimated 25%–30% compared with conventional marine fuels.
The initiative aligns with tightening global environmental regulations, including the EU’s FuelEU Maritime framework and the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 2030 and 2050 emissions reduction targets, supporting the industry’s transition toward more sustainable energy solutions.
“This is a strategic step in our journey to become a comprehensive marine energy services partner,” said Dr. Teck Lim Chia, Chairman and CEO of CBL International. “We are grateful to BYD and CNOOC for their trust and collaboration.”
CBL International is a well-established bunkering services facilitator, serving nine of the world’s top twelve container liner companies. The successful execution of the Xiaomo Port LNG bunkering highlights the company’s expertise in coordinating complex fuel logistics and reinforces its role as a key service partner in the rapidly evolving maritime energy landscape.
