Bureau Veritas VeriFuel has published its second-quarter 2026 findings on bunker fuel quality, indicating several fluctuations. A notable trend was the increase in the global average viscosity for very low sulphur fuel oil (VLSFO), which rose to 186 centistokes (cSt) at 50 degrees Celsius in Q2, up from 176 cSt in Q1 2026. This monthly increase was consistent throughout the quarter, starting at 182 cSt in April and reaching 192 cSt by June. Additionally, the report highlighted changes in sediment content for both VLSFO and high sulphur fuel oil (HSFO).
For freight forwarders and operations managers, these shifts in fuel quality can have implications for vessel performance and operational planning. Variations in viscosity can affect engine efficiency and fuel consumption, potentially leading to minor adjustments in voyage planning or bunkering strategies. Changes in sediment content, while not immediately critical, could signal potential long-term maintenance issues for vessel engines if not properly managed, impacting schedule reliability and operational costs. Monitoring these fuel quality trends is essential for ensuring smooth vessel operations and avoiding unexpected disruptions.
