The UAE halted imports of Sudanese crude oil, triggering a surge in marine fuel spot premiums at the Port of Fujairah. Trade sources said the move disrupted a steady supply that had seen one or two monthly Sudanese shipments since January.
Kpler shipment data confirmed no Sudanese crude arrived in August, despite its processing in local refineries into ultra-low-sulfur fuel oil. The fuel, widely used for ship bunkering, saw spot premiums climb about $15 per ton above Singapore benchmark prices last week.
Offers for later delivery remained between $10 and $13 per ton, reflecting ongoing pressure on the local marine fuel market. Cargo insurance premiums also spiked to their highest levels this year, signalling growing concerns over volatility and logistical challenges.
Fujairah, the world’s third-largest bunkering hub after Singapore and Rotterdam, plays a pivotal role in international shipping fuel supply. The halt coincides with Sudan’s unrest, where conflict between the General Abdelfattah al Burhan’s army and the rival Rapid Support Forces has disrupted oil exports since April 2023.
The ongoing instability has rippled across regional energy markets, intensifying supply shortages and heightening uncertainty for maritime fuel trade.
