North America

Bunker fuel demand has slowed considerably in Houston this week amid the US presidential election. Fuel grade availability, however, remains strong, with most suppliers offering VLSFO and LSMGO stems for prompt dates with a 5-7 day 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) following nearly a week-long suspension due to strong winds. Since then, a period of calmer weather has allowed suppliers to address the backlog, but conditions are expected to deteriorate again from Friday, potentially causing further delays.

On the East Coast, prompt VLSFO and LSMGO are available in New York, though demand has been low this week.

West Coast ports, including Long Beach and Los Angeles, have seen sluggish demand. VLSFO and LSMGO availability remains steady, with a 5-day 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.

Caribbean and Latin America

In Balboa, VLSFO and LSMGO availability remains tight, with suppliers requiring a lead time of 7-8 days for prompt dates.

Hurricane Rafael has intensified to a Category 3 storm as it makes landfall in Cuba, raising concerns about its potential impact on US offshore energy operations in the Gulf of Mexico, a source reported.

Operations at the Buckeye Bahamas Hub terminal have been suspended since Monday due to adverse weather, halting bunkering and lightering activities. The terminal operator expects conditions to remain unfavorable until Friday, delaying service resumption.

The Buckeye Hub, a crucial terminal in the region, frequently serves large vessels for refueling and transfers, making it an essential link in the shipping chain.

In Freeport, bunker fuel is available, though bunkering has been paused since late last week due to inclement weather. Deliveries are expected to resume during calmer periods, though further delays are anticipated as weather disruptions persist.

In Argentina’s Zona Comun anchorage, bunkering operations have been suspended since Monday due to wind gusts up to 29 knots, making barge deliveries challenging.

Source: ENGINE