Fuel supply to ships has begun at Gwadar Port, with NLC and Vitol successfully completing the port’s first bunkering operation.
According to details, Pakistan marked a significant milestone in its maritime sector as NLC, in collaboration with Vitol, successfully completed the inaugural bunkering operation at Gwadar Port by supplying 2,500 metric tonnes of IMO-compliant Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) to the LNG vessel ENUGU, owned by a UAE-based company.
The marine fuel was produced at Cnergyico Pakistan Limited’s refinery, highlighting the country’s growing capability to supply internationally compliant bunker fuel from domestic refining capacity.
The successful operation is seen as a major step forward in the development of Pakistan’s bunkering and marine fuel supply ecosystem, positioning Gwadar Port as an emerging hub for international maritime services.
Industry officials said the achievement enhances Gwadar’s strategic importance, offering a credible alternative bunkering location for international seagoing vessels amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the region and evolving global shipping routes.
It is worth mentioning here that the first transshipment cargo vessel had berthed at Gwadar Port, marking the arrival of the first large cargo ship at the port in May.
According to port officials, the vessel, MV Shulong had arrived carrying 16,077 metric tonnes of transshipment cargo.
The Media Coordinator of Gwadar Port said the shipment comprises more than 13,000 packages, primarily Chinese-made industrial equipment and pipes. The cargo was originally destined for Kuwait but was diverted to Gwadar due to the ongoing maritime situation in the Strait of Hormuz.
Gwadar Port Chairman said that four transshipment vessels called at the port in April 2026, reflecting the growing search for alternative shipping routes in the region and highlighting Gwadar’s increasing strategic importance. He added that the port has streamlined berthing, cargo handling, and documentation procedures for diverted vessels to ensure efficient operations and prevent disruptions to global trade.
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