EMEA News
Bunkers Unavailable to Qatari-Flagged Vessels Denied Entry at Arab Ports
In a move that could significantly impact bunkering operations in the Middle East, Qatari-flagged vessels have been banned at the ports of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt, and Saudi Arabia after the Arab nations took a number of actions to cut ties with the country, Tradewinds reports.
The Port of Fujairah - the world's second largest bunker port - has issued a formal notice explaining that "vessels flying flags of Qatar or vessel destined to or for arrival from Qatar ports are not allowed to call Port of Fujairah and Fujairah Offshore Anchorage."
Qatari-owner Milaha is noted to have 72 of the 152 Qatar-flagged ships in the global fleet.
In addition to bunkering, the ban is also expected to affect cargo movement in the liquefied natural gas (LNG), crude oil, and product tanker markets.
Court Smith, an analyst at MJLF, says more vessels are expected to call Singapore for bunkers as a result of the Qatar vessel ban, firming bunker prices at that port.
