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OW Bunker, one of the world’s leading suppliers and traders of marine fuel, has today responded to recent claims said to have been made by DNV Petroleum Services that suppliers will face a challenge in meeting the demand for fuel oil with a sulphur content of 3.5%. This follows the MARPOL ANNEX VI regulation that will see the global sulphur content of fuel oil reduced from 4.5%.

"Despite recent claims, OW Bunker has already assured its customers that there will be ample supply for fuel oil with a sulphur content of 3.5% and below, not just in the Middle East, but on a global basis," said Jesper Jervild, Regional Manager, Middle East & South Africa, OW Bunker.

"From all key ports in Europe and the US to Asia, South America and the Middle East, including Fujairah, customers will have access to quality compliant products wherever and whenever they need them. In fact we’re already providing them right now in Suez," continued Jervild.

The global sulphur limit applies to all waters other than Emission Control Areas (ECAs), where fuel oil with a sulphur content of 1% must be used.

Appendix V of MARPOL Annex VI also requires that all bunker delivery receipts (BDRs) must specify the density of the bunker fuel and its sulphur content. It is a legally binding document and the regulation states that it is the responsibility of the company receiving the fuel oil to provide this.

Jesper Jervild continued: "We have rigorous processes in place to ensure the quality of the products that we provide through our dedicated quality control department. And we also have systems that ensure complete transparency throughout the delivery process, so that customers can rest assured that they receive all the necessary documentation including detailed BDRs that confirm regulatory compliance."

OW Bunker also recommends planning for the regulatory change. Jervild concluded: "While supply is not an issue, with less than two months until the New Year, we would advise ship owners and operators to prepare for the transition and ensure that they have in place the most efficient and best-priced fuel procurement strategy that meets the needs and demands of their specific operations and transit routes."