Wedoany.com Report-Aug. 1, Yangshan Port, located in Shanghai Municipality, has become the first port in China to provide bunkering services for multiple low-emission marine fuels, including liquefied natural gas (LNG), green methanol, biofuels, and ultra-low sulfur fuel oil (ULSFO), according to local authorities.

A recent milestone was achieved when the bunkering vessel Qi Hong 9 completed an operation at the port, supplying 875 tonnes of domestically produced ULSFO to the COSCO PRIDE, an internationally operating vessel. This marked the first ship-to-ship bunkering operation in China using domestically produced ultra-low sulfur fuel oil for a ship engaged in international navigation.

The fuel was supplied by PetroChina Huabei Petrochemical Company, supporting the country’s efforts to expand its marine fuel capabilities and enhance green shipping infrastructure. The operation reflects growing capabilities at Yangshan Port, positioning it as a key hub for environmentally responsible maritime fuel services.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has announced that, starting from May 1, 2025, the maximum sulfur content in fuel oil used by ships operating in designated international waters will be reduced from 0.5% to 0.1%. This regulatory change aims to further reduce air pollution from shipping activities and support cleaner fuel alternatives worldwide.

The expansion of fuel options at Yangshan Port aligns with these global environmental targets. By offering a range of cleaner fuels such as LNG, green methanol, and biofuels in addition to ULSFO, the port contributes to international efforts toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable maritime operations.

The development is expected to enhance the port’s competitiveness and service capabilities, while also supporting domestic producers and logistics networks. It also provides international shipping lines with greater flexibility in complying with new fuel regulations.

This advancement represents a coordinated step involving local port authorities, fuel producers, and shipping companies to meet evolving industry standards. Yangshan Port’s ability to supply multiple fuel types from a single location demonstrates its readiness to support the maritime sector’s transition to lower-emission energy sources.