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Fujairah Fuel Oil Stocks Jump in July
Fuel oil inventories in Fujairah have increased sharply during July, supported by a significant rise in imports, although stronger exports have prevented stockpiles from climbing even further.
Data from the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone (FOIZ) and S&P Global show that average fuel oil inventories have been substantially higher this month compared with June, while bunker fuel availability has tightened amid renewed tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.
Fuel Oil Inventories Rise
Average heavy distillate and residual fuel oil stocks increased by 2.54 million barrels from June, reaching 5.98 million barrels during July.
By contrast, middle distillate inventories declined by 60,000 barrels, averaging 1.33 million barrels over the same period.
Despite the monthly increase, heavy fuel oil inventories have remained below the 6 million-barrel level throughout July.
Imports Surge as Regional Supply Changes
According to cargo tracking firm Vortexa, fuel oil imports into Fujairah averaged 69,000 barrels per day, compared with only 3,000 barrels per day in June.
Saudi Arabia supplied the largest share of imports, accounting for 43% of total volumes. Iraq contributed 27%, while Russia supplied 20%.
The sharp increase in imports reflects changing regional trade flows as suppliers adjust to evolving market conditions.
Strong Exports Limit Stock Build
Fuel oil exports also increased during July, rising by 5,000 barrels per day to 191,000 barrels per day.
The higher export volume shifted Fujairah into a net fuel oil exporter, helping reduce the pace of inventory accumulation.
Singapore remained the largest export destination, receiving 66% of shipments. Malaysia accounted for 11%, while Oman received 8% of exported volumes.
Bunker Fuel Supply Becomes More Restricted
The bunker market has tightened as renewed tensions between the United States and Iran continue to affect shipping activity around the Strait of Hormuz.
According to market data, supplies of Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) and Low Sulphur Marine Gas Oil (LSMGO) have become more limited than in the previous week.
Availability of High Sulphur Fuel Oil (HSFO) also remains constrained, with most suppliers offering cargo only on a firm enquiry basis.
Regional Shipping Watches Supply Conditions
Fujairah remains one of the world's most important bunkering hubs, making inventory levels and fuel availability closely watched indicators for shipping companies and freight operators.
As geopolitical tensions continue to influence vessel movements through the Gulf, bunker suppliers and shipowners are expected to monitor fuel availability, inventory trends and regional trade flows before planning future voyages.
