Pakistan has completed its marine bunkering footprint across all three of its commercial ports after successfully carrying out the first-ever marine bunkering operation at Gwadar Port, marking a major step towards strengthening the country’s maritime infrastructure and shipping services.
The inaugural operation involved the delivery of 2,500 metric tonnes of IMO-compliant Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) to the UAE-owned LNG vessel LNG ENUGU. The fuel was refined by Cnergyico PK Limited, while Vitol carried out the bunkering operation through its specialised barge Marine Ista in partnership with the National Logistics Corporation.
The milestone extends Pakistan’s marine fuel supply capability from Karachi Port and Port Qasim to Gwadar Port, enabling the country to provide internationally compliant bunkering services across its entire network of major commercial ports.
Marine bunkering is considered a vital commercial service for global shipping, allowing ports to generate additional maritime business by supplying fuel to visiting vessels. The latest development is expected to reduce Pakistan’s reliance on regional bunkering centres while creating new opportunities for the country’s maritime and logistics sectors.
Industry sources said that Gwadar’s entry into the marine bunkering business significantly enhances its commercial appeal. Situated close to some of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, the port is well positioned to attract ocean-going vessels seeking efficient and reliable refuelling services, especially as shipping companies increasingly diversify their operational routes amid evolving geopolitical challenges.
Vice Chairman of Cnergyico PK Limited Usama Qureshi described the achievement as a landmark for Pakistan’s maritime sector, saying, “The successful operation at Gwadar completes the expansion of Pakistan’s marine bunkering footprint across all three major commercial ports. Vitol and its team have played an extraordinary role in making this milestone a reality for Pakistan and I congratulate everyone whose dedication and collaboration made it possible.”
He further stated, “This is an important step towards strengthening the country’s maritime services and providing international vessels with access to a reliable marine fuel supply network, powered by Cnergyico’s high-quality fuels.”
Appreciating the support received from public sector institutions, Qureshi added, “We are grateful to the Government of Pakistan, Port Authorities, National Logistics Cell and other government authorities. This collaboration showcases Pakistan’s growing capability to serve regional and international shipping.”
The companies also acknowledged the facilitation extended by the Prime Minister’s Maritime Task Force, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, the Federal Board of Revenue and the Gwadar Port Authority, saying their support helped make Pakistan’s first marine bunkering operation at Gwadar a success.
The successful commencement of marine bunkering at Gwadar is expected to diversify the port’s commercial services, attract additional shipping traffic and reinforce Pakistan’s long-term objective of positioning Gwadar as a competitive maritime gateway serving regional and international trade.
