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Best bunkering ports in the world: volume, infrastructure and quality

Biggest bunkering ports in the world

Bunkering ports are vital hubs in global maritime logistics, ensuring vessels are fueled and trade flows efficiently, supporting both operations and the shipping industry’s economic strength.

As the demand for cleaner fuels and faster turnaround times grows, choosing the right bunkering ports in the world becomes increasingly strategic.

Ranking criteria to choose the best bunkering ports in the world

When evaluating the efficacy and prominence of bunkering ports, several key factors are considered:

  • Volume supplied. The total metric tons of marine fuel dispensed annually is a primary indicator of a port’s capacity and demand.
  • Infrastructure and quality of services. Advanced facilities, including storage tanks, fueling berths, and state-of-the-art transfer systems, ensure safe and efficient operations. The quality of services encompasses the availability of various fuel types, adherence to international standards, and the proficiency of service providers.
  • Strategic location. Proximity to major shipping lanes and trade routes enhances a port’s accessibility and desirability for refueling stops.
  • Regulatory compliance and sustainability initiatives. Ports that align with global environmental standards and invest in sustainable practices are increasingly preferred by shipping companies aiming to reduce their carbon footprint.

Top 10 bunkering ports in the world

As the industry evolves, ports that embrace innovation and sustainability will continue to lead in the global bunkering landscape.

Best bunkering ports in the world

Port of Singapore

Maintaining its position as the world’s leading bunkering hub, Singapore supplied over 54.9 million metric tons of marine fuel in 2024. Its strategic location, coupled with advanced infrastructure and a commitment to digitalization, solidifies its dominance in the sector.

Port of Rotterdam, Netherlands

As Europe’s largest bunkering port, Rotterdam dispensed approximately 9.8 million metric tons in 2024. The port is renowned for its extensive logistics network and investments in alternative fuels like LNG.

Port of Zhoushan, China

Emerging as China’s primary bunkering port, Zhoushan supplied around 7.04 million metric tons. Its rapid development is attributed to modernized facilities and a focus on cleaner fuels.

Port of Fujairah, UAE

Strategically located outside the Strait of Hormuz, Fujairah serves as a vital refueling point, with significant storage capacity and a supply volume of approximately 7.48 million metric tons.

Port of Antwerp-Bruges, Belgium

This key European port offers diverse fuel grades and eco-friendly bunkering services, aligning with global sustainability trends. It supplied about 6.15 million metric tons in 2024.

Port of Busan, South Korea

As South Korea’s largest port, Busan plays a pivotal role in East Asia’s maritime market, with ongoing investments in clean fuel alternatives and a supply volume of 5.78 million metric tons.

Port of Hong Kong

A major Asian bunkering center known for efficient and high-quality fuel services, Hong Kong supplied approximately 5.10 million metric tons in 2024, with advancements in LNG bunkering.

Port of Panama

Crucial for vessels transiting the Panama Canal, this port has expanded its services to meet the growing demand for low-sulfur and alternative fuels, supplying around 4.91 million metric tons.

Port of Gibraltar

Strategically located at the Mediterranean’s entrance, Gibraltar offers efficient bunkering operations and various fuel types, with a supply volume of 4.54 million metric tons.

Port of Shanghai, China

As China’s busiest port, Shanghai is enhancing its capacity for alternative fuels, including LNG and biofuels, positioning itself as a future-forward bunkering hub with a supply of 3.41 million metric tons.

Port of San Juan, Puerto Rico

Serving as a key fueling point in the Caribbean, the Port of San Juan has grown in importance due to its strategic location along major Atlantic trade routes. With investments in modern fuel delivery systems and tax-exempt diesel for export, it supports both regional shipping and offshore operations with flexible truck-to-vessel solutions.

Port of Santos, Brazil

As Latin America’s busiest container port, Santos is also a significant bunkering location on the South Atlantic. It offers a range of marine fuels and benefits from Brazil’s large-scale refining capacity, making it an efficient stopover for vessels navigating between the Americas, Europe, and Africa.

Trends and innovations to look for in the best bunkering ports in the world

Bunkering ports in the world by million metric tons

Selecting the appropriate bunkering port is a strategic decision that impacts operational efficiency, compliance, and environmental sustainability. Factors such as fuel availability, infrastructure quality, and alignment with global standards should guide this choice.

At Royal Petroleum Corp., we are committed to providing reliable and compliant fuel solutions tailored to your operational needs. As a trusted provider at the Port of San Juan and many other key ports throughout Puerto Rico, we specialize in efficient, tax-exempt truck-to-vessel bunkering services that keep your operations running smoothly.

Explore our product catalog to discover how we can support your maritime ventures across Puerto Rico and the Caribbean.

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