Asia/Pacific News
Hong Kong Port Strike Had No Impact on Bunker Demand
The recent 40-day strike at Hong Kong's Kwai Tsing container terminal had no impact on bunker demand, bunker suppliers have told Platts.
"I haven't seen the demand drop (in bunker fuel), only vessels got delayed," a Hong Kong based supplier said.
However vessels' bunkering schedules were said to have been impacted by the strike, which ended last Monday, and although container terminals remained operational, it was at lower rates resulting in delays to loading and discharging schedules.
The South China Morning Post said port operator Hong kong International Terminals (HIT) estimated about 100 vessels avoided its terminals during the strike, which was believed to represent about 1 percent of of vessels that were scheduled to arrive.
The strike ended after dock workers, who had been demanding a 20 percent pay rise, accepted a 9.8 percent increase in their salaries.
Hong Kong sells about 500,000-600,000 metric tonnes (mt) of bunker fuel per month, according to Platts.
