Pakistan has achieved a major milestone in its maritime sector after the successful launch of ship bunkering operations at Gwadar Port, marking the first time an international vessel has been refueled at the strategically important deep-sea port.
The breakthrough was made possible through a collaboration between the National Logistics Corporation (NLC) and global energy trader Vitol, positioning Gwadar as a new regional hub for marine fuel services.
As part of the inaugural operation, the UAE-flagged LNG carrier ENUGU received 2,500 metric tonnes of marine fuel at Gwadar Port. The fuel supplied was Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO), fully compliant with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) stringent environmental standards for international shipping.
In another significant achievement, the premium marine fuel was produced locally by Pakistan’s largest oil refinery, Cnergyico PK Limited, highlighting the country’s growing capability to supply internationally certified marine fuels.
The successful bunkering operation is expected to strengthen Gwadar’s position as an emerging maritime logistics hub. With traditional shipping routes and regional refueling centers facing increasing pressure due to ongoing geopolitical tensions, Gwadar offers international shipping companies a strategically located, efficient, and cost-effective alternative.
Industry experts believe the development could significantly enhance Pakistan’s Blue Economy by creating new business opportunities in marine fuel supply, port services, and maritime logistics. The initiative is also expected to attract more international vessels to Gwadar, generate foreign exchange, and support the government’s broader vision of transforming the port into a major regional trade and energy gateway.
The launch of bunkering services marks another important step in expanding Gwadar Port’s commercial operations and reinforces Pakistan’s ambitions to become a key player in regional maritime trade.