- Singapore’s total bunker sales declined slightly to 26.98 million tonnes in the first half of 2025.
- Sales of conventional fuels dropped nearly 3%, while alternative fuels saw a sharp increase.
- Shipping activity slowed due to ongoing global trade uncertainties and tariffs.
Singapore, the world’s leading marine fuel hub, recorded a slight decrease in bunker fuel sales during the first half of 2025. Total volumes fell by 1% compared to the same period last year, totaling 26.98 million tonnes, reports Reuters.
The decline was primarily driven by a nearly 3% reduction in sales of traditional fuels like residual fuel oil and marine gasoil, which amounted to 25.96 million tonnes.
Green Fuels Gain Momentum
Global shipping demand has been affected by persistent geopolitical uncertainties, especially trade-related tensions and tariffs. These challenges have led to increased volatility in fuel consumption as ship operators navigate unpredictable trade flows and rising operational costs. Concerns over potential disruptions have made fuel planning more conservative, curbing overall bunker sales.
In contrast to the downturn in conventional fuels, alternative marine fuels experienced strong growth. Sales of cleaner options such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) and biofuel blends more than doubled during the same period, exceeding 1 million tonnes. June 2025 saw record LNG bunker sales, along with a notable surge in bio-blended fuel volumes, signaling a shift toward environmentally friendly shipping practices.
Monthly Performance and Port Activity
Bunker fuel sales in June declined by 5.8% from the previous month, totaling 4.6 million tonnes. However, this figure was still 7.5% higher than in June 2024. At the same time, container throughput dropped by 3.1% to 3.7 million TEUs, and the number of vessels calling for bunkering services fell by 6.5% to 3,402.
Singapore’s bunker market is currently shaped by two competing forces. On one hand, short-term market uncertainty—driven by global economic pressures and supply chain instability—is dampening demand. On the other, the industry’s push toward sustainability is gaining momentum, as evidenced by the rising adoption of alternative fuels. The interplay between these trends will determine the trajectory of marine fuel demand in the months to come.
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Source: Reuters
