ENGINE: Europe & Africa Bunker Fuel Availability Outlook

Northwest Europe's fuel oil supply remains tight, with buyers advised to allow 5-7 days for good coverage from suppliers, according to a trader. The ARA's fuel oil stocks have averaged 17% higher in September compared to August, with imports dropping from 342,000 b/d to 256,000 b/d this month, according to Vortexa data. Most of the imports come from Mexico, Colombia, and the US.

Gasoil inventories in the region have increased by 2% compared to August, with most shipments arriving from the US, UK, and Denmark. In Hamburg, buyers are advised to allow five days' notice for delivery of any grade, while in Skaw and Gothenburg, 10-14 days' notice is recommended. In the Mediterranean, Gibraltar Strait ports have tight availability with 10-12 days' notice required, while Ceuta, Las Palmas, and Barcelona require at least seven days' notice for any fuel grade.

Las Palmas and Las Palmas' bunker availability is tight for prompt deliveries, requiring around 10-12 days to avoid premium prices. In Piraeus, LSMGO availability can be tight due to high demand and low barge availability. In South Africa's Durban, prompt supply is tight with a week's notice advised for any grade. In Mauritius' Port Louis, buyers are advised to allow 10-14 days for VLSFO and LSMGO deliveries, and in Mozambique's Nacala and Maputo, a week's notice is needed for VLSFO.