Asia/Pacific News
Matrix Bharat Highlights Growing Physical Operations in Mumbai
Matrix Bharat Pte. Ltd. (MXB) today announced that it has initiated physical supply operations in Mumbai.
"This development strengthens the company’s position and creates the foundation for further growth," said MXB, a joint venture between Matrix Marine Fuels and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (BPCL).
As Ship & Bunker previously reported, MXB last month announced the commencement of bunker supply operations at Mumbai's Outer-Port Limits (OPL), as well as Jawahar Dweep - Mumbai Port's new barge loading terminal.
"The company will provide customers with physical products at Mumbai’s Outer Port Limits (OPL), servicing vessels that are waiting to berth, as well as vessels making bunker-only-calls," said MXB today.
"As well as maximising efficiencies within the delivery process, vessels calling for marine fuel oil only will also benefit from paying reduced port charges."
MXB says it will use BPCL's total tank storage capacity of 72,000 mt, initially operating one 32,000 mt storage tank - said to be the largest in Mumbai.
The company also notes that it is currently in discussions with BPCL to operate one 8,000 mt storage tank for marine gasoil (MGO) supply in the near future.
MXB bunker delivery operations are said to be supported by five barges ranging in capacities from 650 metric tonnes (mt) to 1200 mt, with barge loadings taking place 24/7, 365 days per year to enable bunker deliveries in a shorter lead-time.
The company says it will supply customers with a range of products, including IFO 380cst, RMG 380 (ISO 8217:2005 and 2010).
"The launch of physical operations in Mumbai OPL is in line with our growth strategy, utilising the storage and supply strengths of our joint venture companies, and providing customers with the best possible marine fuel products and services," said Ashok Sharma, Head of Marketing Support & Supplies for MXB in India.
"Our focus is based on providing cost efficiencies for our customers, while ensuring the highest levels of supply, from order through to delivery. In addition to our operations in India, we are also able to provide services to other ports east of Suez, including Fujairah, Singapore, and Sri Lanka."
