Singapore Initiatives to Enhance Bunker Quality
Singapore bunkering conference informed by Minister of Transport of recent measures taken to improve bunkering in the port.
Minister for Transport, Mr Lui Tuck Yew, presided over the opening ceremony of the 17th Singapore International Bunkering Conference and Exhibition (SIBCON) and during the opening announced the introduction of an information sheet on licensed bunker suppliers and an industry guide for the use of mass flow metering system.
Minister Lui said that MPA will publish an information sheet on licensed bunker suppliers in the Port of Singapore in its efforts to allow shipowners to make more informed decisions in appointing bunker suppliers. This information sheet will enhance transparency across the bunkering supply chain by providing details on sales performance, technical performance and other value-added propositions.
Minister Lui also shared that MPA has developed an industry guide for the use of mass flow metering system. The industry guide will provide an overview of the requirements for applying mass flow metering system during bunker deliveries in Singapore. With the introduction of the industry guide, MPA hopes to encourage more bunker players to adopt mass flow meters so as to promote the development of a Singapore Standard for Mass Flow Metering System in the future.
Other than the measures mentioned by Mr Lui, the MPA will also commence a study on frothed bunkers and establish a hotline to help manage bunker disputes. These initiatives are part of MPA's efforts to enhance the quality of bunkering in Singapore and will also help ensure Singapore retains its competitiveness as the world's leading bunkering port.
In this regard MPA and the Singapore Maritime Institute have appointed the National Metrology Centre to conduct an in-depth study on frothed bunkers to tackle recent allegations of frothed bunkers being delivered in Singapore.
