Bunker fuel quality in China’s major bunkering port, Zhoushan, benefits from tight control over refining and barge operations, according to fuel testing firm VPS.
Andrew Morton, managing director of VPS AMEA, shared the assessment in a presentation titled ‘Global Major Bunkering Ports: Fuel Quality Analysis’ at the 9th IPEC event in Zhoushan.
“Unlike more fragmented bunkering hubs, where trader-heavy operations can increase risk, Zhoushan benefits from tight control over the refining process and barge logistics,” Morton said.
“This structural discipline creates a more reliable environment, contrasting with the volatility and contamination risks experienced in some other global regions.”
Morton also said bunker quality issues in 2026 have been influenced by Middle East-related supply disruptions and volatility in the availability of VLSFO and suitable blend stocks.
VPS said it has strengthened its regional support for shipowners, operators and fuel suppliers with the opening of a marine fuel quality testing laboratory in Pudong, Shanghai, earlier this year.
