Vitol has confirmed that its latest LNG bunkering vessel, the 12,500 cubic meter (cbm) Vivit Asia LNG, is set to begin its bunkering activities by late 2026, following the completion of its sea trials. This initiative is supported by a fully contracted regional supply chain and leverages Vitol's existing global LNG portfolio.
The company's expansion plans include the delivery of two additional LNG bunkering vessels in 2026 and 2027, bringing their combined capacity to over 50,000 cbm. This strategic investment reflects the growing demand for LNG as a marine fuel, driven by environmental regulations and the shipping industry's decarbonization efforts.
For freight forwarders and shippers, the increased availability of LNG bunkering vessels, particularly in Asia, signifies a more robust infrastructure for vessels opting for LNG fuel. This expansion could contribute to greater schedule reliability for LNG-powered ships and potentially stabilize bunker prices for this alternative fuel, offering more predictable operational costs for carriers and, by extension, for freight rates. It also supports the broader shift towards greener shipping practices, which can be a factor in carrier selection for environmentally conscious shippers.
