ARA MFM Readiness: Mandatory Mass Flow Meters by 2026 | Mariner News

As the January 1, 2026 deadline for mandatory Mass Flow Meters (MFMs) in the ARA region rapidly approaches, the maritime industry is keenly assessing its readiness. Recent discussions at the ARACON conference, led by Petro Inspect’s George Masvoulas, highlighted significant concerns. While the industry acknowledges the inevitability of these new regulations for bunker fuel deliveries, questions remain about the practical implementation and ensuring the integrity of the process. The shift to mandatory ARA MFM usage aims to enhance transparency and accuracy in fuel transactions across ports like Rotterdam and Antwerp/Bruges.

Key Challenges in MFM Adoption

Despite the clear regulatory push, experts note a lack of strong evidence suggesting that upcoming MFM deliveries will consistently adhere to rigorous international standards such as ISO 22192, which mirrors Singapore’s successful SS648. This gap raises vital concerns about the true accuracy of the systems and the overall integrity of bunker fuel transactions. The new ADN guidelines, prohibiting open manual measurements, further underscore the need for reliable automated solutions.

Ensuring Compliance and Fuel Delivery Integrity

To ensure a seamless transition and uphold the trust in Mass Flow Meter technology, there’s a critical need for thorough review and consideration of current operational issues. The Port of Rotterdam’s bunker license already mandates certain aspects of ISO 22192, signaling a commitment to high standards. However, ongoing efforts are essential to address any discrepancies and guarantee that all bunker industry stakeholders are prepared for accurate and transparent fuel measurement. Proactive measures will secure the benefits of MFM technology across the maritime supply chain.