Gwadar Port launches first commercial bunkering operation

GWADAR: Gwadar Port has completed its first commercial bunkering operation, expanding the range of maritime services available at the facility beyond cargo handling.

The refuelling operation took place from July 9 to 11 through a joint effort involving the Gwadar Port Authority, National Logistics Cell, Gwadar International Terminals Limited and Vitol Asia. During the exercise, the LNG carrier Enugu was supplied with 2,500 metric tonnes of very low sulphur fuel oil at the port.

The 285.4-metre vessel was serviced by the bunker barge Marine Ista. The ship is jointly owned by QatarEnergy, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company and Vitol. Pakistan Customs, port authorities and local shipping agent Pak Traders Gwadar also took part in the operation to help ensure it was completed safely and efficiently.

Expansion of port services

Port authorities said the operation marks the formal start of commercial bunkering services at Gwadar. With this addition, the port is now in a position to provide bunkering and other marine services to international vessels alongside its cargo operations.

Experts said the development could open up new avenues for foreign exchange earnings and revenue generation. They said it may also strengthen Gwadar Port’s capacity to draw international shipping traffic.

Link to broader economic plans

The development was described as being in line with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor vision of turning Gwadar into a major regional trade and energy hub. Port authorities said more international vessels are expected to use the port for refuelling in the future.

They added that the launch of bunkering services is expected to support Pakistan’s blue economy, logistics and marine services sector, while also creating local employment opportunities.