Your source for daily VLSFO bunker fuel prices, IMO 2020 compliance data, and market analysis for Singapore, Rotterdam, Fujairah, and Houston.
Real-time VLSFO prices, charts & port analytics
VLSFO (Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil) is a marine bunker fuel with a maximum sulphur content of 0.50% m/m, mandated by the IMO 2020 regulation. It replaced High Sulphur Fuel Oil for most vessels not fitted with scrubbers.
Shipowners and operators who need live bunker rate data will find daily VLSFO assessments, port-by-port comparisons, and cost-per-ton analytics across our platform.
The global VLSFO market is benchmarked across three primary hubs. The Singapore price serves as the Asian reference, Rotterdam sets the European benchmark, and Fujairah anchors the Middle East corridor.
Monitoring these rates helps fleet operators make informed hedging decisions and plan bunkering calls efficiently. Data covers 0.50% sulphur compliant fuel across all major ports.
Before IMO 2020, vessels predominantly burned High Sulphur Fuel Oil at 3.5% sulphur. The regulation mandated a switch to 0.50% sulphur-compliant fuel. The key differences between the two fuels affect combustion, compatibility, and cost.
Many owners also evaluate Low Sulphur Marine Gas Oil (LSMGO) as an alternative. VLSFO is typically cheaper than MGO but requires heating and more careful compatibility management.
VLSFO must meet ISO 8217 specifications. Key parameters include density (typically 920–970 kg/m³ at 15°C), viscosity (20–180 cSt at 50°C), and CCAI ratings that affect fuel ignition quality.
Poor blending stability can cause sludge formation and filter blockages. Engineers are advised to verify compatibility, cat fines content, and pour point before bunkering.
The bunker fuel market in 2026 remains sensitive to OPEC+ production decisions, refinery maintenance schedules, and shifting trade patterns. Price forecast models incorporate benchmark crude, freight demand, and refinery margins.
Our market coverage includes price history charts, spot and forward price comparisons, and arbitrage analysis across key bunkering regions.
VLSFO suppliers in Singapore, Rotterdam, Houston, and Fujairah offer 0.50% sulphur fuel with varying lead times, delivery methods, and credit terms. Cost per metric ton fluctuates with regional supply and demand.
Sound procurement requires validating fuel quality certificates, reviewing sulphur test results, and checking Bunker Delivery Note (BDN) compliance.
The maritime industry stands at a critical crossroads. As global environmental concerns intensify and regulatory pressures mount, the transition from traditional marine bunker fuels toward greener alternatives is accelerating.
Explore how AI improves fuel analysis, automated purification control, and voyage fuel optimization — detection of contaminants, model-predictive control for purifiers, and fuel consumption forecasting.
Published: 2026-08-03
Gibraltar Port is a strategic maritime hub at the entrance to the Mediterranean, serving as a key bunkering and digital settlements center for global shipping. Its port facilities, regulatory framework, and proximity to major shipping lanes make it an important location for VLSFO supply, brokerage services, and cross-border fuel transactions.
Read the full article on Gibraltar Port →
Published: 2026-08-31
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