Fuel supply in ARA ports of Europe is under pressure due to market conditions and rising demand. Buyers in this region should consider delivery times of 5 to 7 days for fuel supply from suppliers.
Fuel Reserves Status
According to Insights Global data, oil fuel reserves in the ARA region in November were 2 percent higher than the average for October. Additionally, oil fuel reserves have increased by 57 percent compared to May, which experienced the lowest levels in over a decade. However, these reserves are still 12 percent lower than the levels available in February.
Supply Status in Various Ports
In November, ARA ports imported an average of 49,000 barrels of oil fuel daily, a decrease from 183,000 barrels in October. Most shipments have come from Mexico (87 percent) and Finland (11 percent). Meanwhile, independent diesel reserves in this region have grown by 1 percent compared to October, with 400,000 barrels of diesel imported in November.
In the port of Hamburg, fuel supply is stable, but suppliers request at least 5 days' notice for fulfilling requests. In Denmark and Sweden, buyers should consider delivery times of about 10 days.
Weather Challenges
The Mediterranean storm “Charles” has severely impacted fuel supply in the southern and western regions of Spain. In the Strait of Gibraltar, strong winds have led to weather warnings, and maritime traffic has been suspended. Currently, eight ships are waiting for fuel supply at this port, and suppliers are facing delays of 4 to 14 hours.
In the Canary Islands, fuel supply conditions are also facing challenges, and buyers should consider delivery times of 7 to 10 days for most supplies. Additionally, in the port of Huelva, fuel supply has been halted due to weather conditions.
In Africa, VLSFO supply at the Mindelo port in Cape Verde has run out, and it is expected to be replenished again by late November or early December. In Dakar, Senegal, VLSFO and LSMGO will be available from November 25.
