Pakistan has achieved a major milestone in its maritime sector by successfully launching marine bunkering services at Gwadar Port, marking the first time the strategic deep-sea port has supplied fuel to an international commercial vessel.
Read More: Gwadar Port carries out first successful commercial bunkering
The landmark operation makes Pakistan capable of providing marine fuel services at all three of its major commercial ports—Karachi Port, Port Qasim and Gwadar Port—strengthening the country’s position in regional maritime trade and logistics.
During the inaugural operation, the foreign-owned LNG carrier LNG ENUGU received 2,500 metric tonnes of Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO), produced by Pakistan’s Cnergyico PK Limited in accordance with International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards. The bunkering operation was carried out by global energy company Vitol through its bunker barge Marine Ista, in collaboration with the National Logistics Corporation (NLC).
Officials described the development as a significant step towards expanding Pakistan’s maritime services and improving the commercial viability of Gwadar Port. The new capability allows vessels calling at Gwadar to refuel locally instead of relying solely on established regional bunkering hubs such as Fujairah or Singapore.
Authorities said the country’s marine bunkering network is now fully operational across all three commercial ports under Pakistan Single Window’s electronic customs framework and Marine Bunkering Rules. The integrated system is designed to provide internationally certified fuel supply services while streamlining customs procedures and improving operational efficiency.
The initiative is being implemented through cooperation between Vitol Bunkers, the National Logistics Corporation and Cnergyico PK Limited, creating a coordinated framework for supplying marine fuel to international shipping.
Industry experts believe the availability of bunkering services at Gwadar could enhance the port’s competitiveness, attract additional international vessel traffic and generate new revenue for Pakistan’s maritime sector. It is also expected to support broader efforts to transform Gwadar into a regional logistics and transshipment hub under the country’s long-term port development strategy.
Read More: Government fast-tracks maritime reforms to boost trade, port efficiency
The successful operation represents another step in Pakistan’s efforts to modernise its maritime infrastructure and expand its role in international shipping and trade.