Sulfur Bunker Claims Rise as China Steps Up Checks: Gard

by Ship & Bunker News Team
Friday August 14, 2026

Marine insurer Gard has reported a sharp rise in sulfur-related bunker claims as Chinese authorities step up checks on ships and marine fuel.

The number of cases more than tripled in the first half of 2026 from a year earlier, while also exceeding the total recorded in all of 2025 by about 40%, it said in an article published on Wednesday.

The increase comes as the China Maritime Safety Administration (MSA) and local maritime authorities carry out a joint pollution control campaign in the Bohai Sea.

The MSA offices in Tianjin, Hebei, Liaoning and Shandong launched the campaign on June 5.

It covers major ports including Tianjin, Tangshan, Qinhuangdao, Huanghua, Jinzhou, Yingkou and Longkou.

Checks can include fuel sampling, onboard inspections and reviews of bunker delivery notes, fuel test reports and fuel management records.

Gard highlighted a recent case in Panjin, where China MSA officers found fuel containing 2.51% sulfur. Initial testing put the level at between 2.5% and 2.7%.

The vessel was ordered to stop using the fuel and submit a disposal plan while the investigation continued.

Ships using fuel that fails to meet Chinese requirements can face fines of RMB 10,000 to RMB 100,000.

Gard urged owners and operators to check fuel quality carefully and retain bunker samples and documentation in case of inspections or claims.

Ship & Bunker News Team
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