Escalating tensions in West Asia have pushed up marine fuel prices at Port of Fujairah, prompting shipowners and charterers to explore alternative bunkering hubs to manage rising voyage costs, industry sources said.
Fujairah, one of the world’s largest bunkering centres located outside the Strait of Hormuz, has witnessed a sharp spike in very low sulphur fuel oil (VLSFO) and marine gasoil prices amid heightened risk perception, tighter supply and surging insurance premiums.
Traders said additional war risk surcharges and supply chain disruptions have widened price spreads compared to competing ports in the region and Asia. As a result, some vessels are opting to lift fuel at alternative hubs such as Singapore, Colombo or select Indian ports where price differentials and risk exposure appear more favourable.
Shipping executives noted that bunker procurement strategies are being recalibrated in real time, with operators weighing freight economics, route deviations and port turnaround considerations. Even marginal increases in fuel prices can significantly impact operating costs for large container ships, tankers and bulk carriers.
Market participants cautioned that sustained volatility at Fujairah could reshape short-term bunkering patterns across major East-West trade lanes. However, they added that Fujairah’s deep infrastructure, storage capacity and established trading ecosystem may help stabilise demand once geopolitical risks ease.
As the conflict continues to cast uncertainty over regional energy and shipping markets, bunker buyers remain on alert for further price swings and potential supply adjustments.