EMEA News
Russian Bunkering Ban Illegal, Says Group
The Russian Association of Marine and River Bunker Suppliers says a ban imposed on offshore bunkering in Russian ports is illegal and will sharply reduce calls to the ports, Russian industry news site Information & Analytical Agency PortNews reports.
The Association argues that the ban imposed by Central Energy Customs (CEC), which prevents bunkering except at moorage walls of specialised oil terminals, reduces Russian ports' attractiveness compared with other ports vessels could choose.
The Association called on Yury Chaika, Prosecutor General of Russia, to investigate whether CEC's actions were illegal, and, if so, cancel their implementation.
It also said the prosecutor should look into the actions of CEC Chief P. Strelnikov concerning excess of his authority.
Vessels have been prevented from refuelling at Black Sea and Baltic Sea ports in Russia since CEC began imposing the new rules.
