Gwadar Port achieves milestone

GATEWAY TO GLOBAL TRADE: A bunker vessel transfers locally refined IMO-compliant marine fuel to an LNG carrier during the inaugural bunkering operation at Gwadar Port, opening a new chapter for Pakistan’s maritime sector. PHOTO: EXPRESS

GWADAR:

Gwadar Port has successfully completed its first commercial ship refuelling operation, marking a major milestone in its evolution into a full-fledged maritime services hub and expanding its capabilities beyond conventional cargo handling.

The inaugural bunkering operation was carried out between July 9 and 11 through a joint effort involving the Gwadar Port Authority (GPA), National Logistics Cell (NLC), Gwadar International Terminals Limited (GITL) and global energy company Vitol Asia.

The development formally launches commercial bunkering services at the port, allowing international vessels to refuel at Gwadar alongside existing cargo operations.

As part of the operation, the liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier Enugu, jointly owned by Qatar Energy, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and Vitol, received 2,500 metric tonnes of very low sulphur fuel oil (VLSFO).

The 285.4-metre-long vessel was refuelled by the bunker barge Marine Ista.

Pakistan Customs, port authorities and local shipping agent Pak Traders Gwadar coordinated the operation, ensuring the safe and efficient completion of the refuelling process.

With the addition of commercial bunkering, Gwadar Port is now equipped to provide a wider range of marine services to international shipping, further strengthening its operational profile.

Maritime experts believe the development could generate fresh foreign exchange earnings and new revenue streams while enhancing Gwadar's attractiveness as a destination for international shipping lines.

They also said the milestone is in line with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) vision of transforming Gwadar into a major regional trade and energy hub.

Port authorities said the successful operation marks the formal launch of commercial bunkering services at Gwadar, expressing confidence that more international vessels will use the facility for refuelling in the future.