Maritime Insurer Gard Saw 50% Increase in Bunker Claims in Early 2026

by Ship & Bunker News Team
Monday June 22, 2026

Maritime insurer Gard handled more than 70 bunker-related claims between January and May 2026, up 50% from the same period last year, with fuel quality issues accounting for almost all cases.

The claim numbers rose after tensions in the Middle East escalated in late February, Gard said in a new report released on Friday.

Gard said bunker quality incidents were recorded globally, with major hubs such as Singapore, Houston and the ARA region featuring prominently due to their large supply volumes.

VLSFO accounted for more than 85% of all bunker-quality claims, reflecting the fuel's complex, blended composition and susceptibility to contamination.

The insurer cautioned that compliance with ISO 8217 specifications does not necessarily mean a fuel is fit for use.

Many claims involved fuels that met standard testing parameters but still caused operational problems, machinery damage or contamination issues.

Around 40% of cases involved fuels that were on-spec under ISO 8217 table 2 but were alleged to contain harmful substances.

While no major incidents were linked directly to fuel quality, several vessels were disabled or required towage, highlighting the operational risks associated with poor-quality bunkers

Ship & Bunker News Team
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