Off-Spec Bunker Fuel Cases Rose in H2 2025: LR | Mariner News
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has unveiled alarming insights into the state of marine fuel quality, reporting a significant surge in off-spec bunker fuel cases during the second half of 2025. This period saw both the frequency and severity of non-compliant fuel incidents intensify across major global supply hubs, posing substantial challenges for shipping operations worldwide. The findings underscore a growing concern within the maritime industry regarding the reliability of fuel supplies.
Key Findings from LR’s Fuel Quality Report
According to LR’s FOBAS testing service, roughly 15% of residual fuel samples tested in H2 2025 exceeded ISO 8217 specifications. This marks an approximate two percentage point increase from the first half of the year. Persistent issues included elevated sulfur levels, a rise in catalytic fines, and increased sediment and water content. Major bunkering centers like Singapore, Rotterdam, Antwerp, and Hong Kong were particularly affected, with December recording the highest monthly totals of quality incidents.
Impact on Shipping Operations
The report highlighted extreme cases, such as sulfur content reaching 1.85% in Rotterdam and catalytic fines soaring to 580 mg/kg in Singapore. Such poor fuel quality presents significant operational risks, making onboard treatment difficult and potentially leading to engine damage and system failures. The escalating number of off-spec incidents demands heightened vigilance from ship operators and fuel suppliers to mitigate potential operational disruptions and maintain vessel safety.
