VLSFO Prices —
Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil Rates

Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) is a marine fuel with a sulphur content of 0.50% mass/mass or less, making it compliant with the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) 2020 sulphur regulations. This fuel type became the global standard for main engine operation following the implementation of IMO 2020, which dramatically reduced the permitted sulphur content in marine fuels from 3.50% to 0.50%.

VLSFO is primarily used as the main engine fuel for commercial vessels operating outside Emission Control Areas (ECAs). The fuel is designed to provide efficient combustion while significantly reducing sulphur oxide (SOx) emissions compared to traditional high-sulphur fuel oil (HSFO). This reduction in emissions helps protect marine environments and improves air quality in coastal areas.

The introduction of VLSFO represented one of the most significant changes in the maritime fuel industry. Ship operators had to adapt their fuel management systems, and the global refining industry restructured production to meet the new demand. Today, VLSFO accounts for the majority of marine fuel consumption worldwide, making its pricing and availability critical factors for shipping operations.