According to the two port authorities, the move follows an independent study in both Rotterdam, Antwerp and Zeebrugge which showed regular quantity issues in the bunker market. With the measure, the port authorities say they aim to make the ARA bunker market more transparent, efficient and reliable.

During the first half of 2023 the port authorities intend to identify suitable bunker measuring systems. They will also determine the date on which the “obligation to bunker with a bunker measuring system on board bunkering vessels” will enter into force in Antwerp and Zeebrugge as well as Rotterdam.

A joint statement says: “The port authorities are aware that this measure will have a major impact on the bunker market. Therefore, they choose an ambitious yet realistic deadline. The different companies in the bunker chain will be given sufficient time to adapt to this measure. The requirement will be included in the licence for bunker fuel suppliers. Currently, 40 out of 170 bunker vessels in Rotterdam, Antwerp and Zeebrugge are equipped with a bunker measuring system. The introduction of a bunker measuring system will greatly improve efficiency. After all, data from transactions can be read digitally and immediately processed in the accounts.”

IBIA has issued a statement welcoming the decision and calling for more ports to follow suit. It says: “Port authorities have taken an important step toward improving transparency and reliability in the ARA bunker market by agreeing to mandate the use of a bunker measuring system (BMS) for bunker supply vessels operating in Rotterdam, Antwerp and Zeebrugge.”

The decision follows an independent study, through interviews and surveys, undertaken by CE Delft for all three ports. The CE Delft study outcome is similar to the findings of an extensive survey undertaken by IBIA and BIMCO in the first half of 2022, which found strong industry support for bunker supplier licensing and more use of mass flow meters (MFMs). These are seen as key tools for improving market conditions and reducing disputes between bunker suppliers and buyers. The survey was created by the IBIA Bunker Licensing & MFM Working Group, which representatives from both port authorities have taken part in.