This week's bunker market saw mixed movements across the major hubs, with Asian ports firming on refinery maintenance season while European rates softened slightly on weaker demand.
Key Highlights
- Singapore VLSFO steady at ~$521/MT, supported by seasonal refinery turnarounds tightening regional supply
- Rotterdam VLSFO eased to ~$498/MT as mild weather reduced heating fuel competition
- Fujairah continues to offer competitive rates with VLSFO around $510/MT, attracting stem diversions from more expensive Asian ports
- IFO380 Hi-5 spread widened slightly, improving scrubber economics
Singapore
Singapore VLSFO held steady around $521/MT this week, with MGO at approximately $710/MT. The spring refinery maintenance season across South Korea and Japan is beginning to tighten middle distillate supply in the region, providing some upward pressure on fuel prices.
Demand remains solid — Singapore continues to handle strong bunkering volumes as the world's largest hub. Lead times are currently 3–5 days for most grades, which is within normal ranges.
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Rotterdam
European bunker prices softened modestly this week. Rotterdam VLSFO dipped to around $498/MT, with MGO at approximately $660/MT. Mild late-winter weather has reduced competition from heating fuel demand, easing some pressure on distillate supplies.
The North Sea ECA continues to drive steady MGO demand for vessels trading in the region. Barge availability is good, with next-day delivery possible for standard stems.
Check current Rotterdam prices →
Fujairah
Fujairah maintained its position as the competitive option in the Middle East, with VLSFO around $510/MT. The port has seen steady demand from vessels on the Asia-Europe corridor, particularly those seeking to avoid the premium at Singapore.
IFO380 availability remains strong in Fujairah, with the Hi-5 spread (VLSFO minus IFO380) hovering around $80–100/MT — a level that continues to favour scrubber-equipped tonnage.
Check current Fujairah prices →
Market Outlook
Looking ahead to next week, watch for:
- Refinery turnaround season in Asia-Pacific tightening supply through March and April
- US Gulf production rates, which remain strong and are keeping Western Hemisphere prices competitive
- Geopolitical tensions around key shipping chokepoints continuing to influence routing decisions and fuel demand patterns
The overall trend points to a relatively stable market in the near term, with regional supply factors creating modest divergences between hubs.
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