Fuel supply, bunkering at Ctg Port normal despite global tensions: CPA

Fuel supply and bunkering operations at Chattogram Port remain normal despite global geopolitical tensions and volatility in international energy markets, officials said at a coordination meeting on Sunday evening (8 March).

The meeting, held at the Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) conference room, was chaired by CPA Chairman Rear Admiral SM Moniruzzaman, according to a press release.

At the meeting, officials said fuel supply and handling activities at the country's main seaport are continuing smoothly, with vessels carrying energy products arriving regularly.

The CPA chairman said most bunkering and related fuel supplies for ships calling at the port originate from hubs in Singapore and Malaysia, which has limited the impact of global geopolitical instability on local supply chains.

He called on all relevant agencies to work in coordination to further strengthen the fuel supply system and explore alternative sources.

According to the latest port data presented at the meeting, vessels carrying fuel from the Gulf region and other countries are arriving at the port regularly.

Currently, 14 fuel-carrying vessels are either anchored at the outer anchorage or on their way to the port. These include five ships transporting liquefied natural gas from Qatar, Oman and the United Arab Emirates, as well as two vessels carrying liquefied petroleum gas.

Officials said diesel and furnace oil shipments from Singapore and Malaysia are also continuing, ensuring a stable supply of fuel products.

The continuous arrival of large fuel-laden vessels and their quick berthing arrangements indicate there is currently no congestion at the port and fuel supply operations are being managed efficiently, the meeting was told.

Representatives from several organisations attended the meeting, including the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation, the Department of Shipping, the Bangladesh Navy and the Bangladesh Coast Guard, along with officials from Omera Fuel Limited and Padma Oil Company Limited.

Representatives from industry groups such as the Bangladesh Ocean Going Ship Owners Association, the Coastal Ship Owners Association of Bangladesh, and the Bangladesh Ship Handling and Berth Operators Association were also present.

Participants said the country's current fuel reserves are satisfactory and there is sufficient capacity to meet demand. They added that there are no obstacles in supplying fuel to the maritime trade and industrial sectors.

The meeting also decided to assess fuel demand from both public and private sectors in a coordinated manner and to give priority berthing to fuel-carrying vessels at the port.

Officials said all operational activities and logistics support at the port are continuing without disruption. Law enforcement agencies have also been requested to ensure the security of vessels at the outer anchorage.

The port authority said it remains committed to ensuring uninterrupted fuel supply chains, efficient port operations and the country's overall energy security.