China has strengthened its presence in the European LNG sector, with the launch of the first bunkering operation on the continent by China Marine Bunker (Chimbusco).
The state-owned supplier of marine fuel completed its first bunkering operation at the port of Zeebrugge, Belgium late last year and is now targeting further expansion in Europe.
“This marked the first time that Chimbusco completed an LNG bunkering operation in Europe, signalling the official expansion of its green energy services to overseas markets,” a spokesperson for the firm said.
Established in 1972, Chimbusco is a subsidiary of PetroChina, one of the largest oil and gas producers and distributors in the world.
Favoured fuel choice
The bunker firm supplied LNG to the Peony Leader, a state-of-the-art LNG dual-fuel car carrier, with 12 decks and capacity of 7,000 CEU.
“In recent years, while excelling in traditional ship fuel supply, Chimbusco has actively monitored the development of new ship fuel markets,” a spokesperson for the firm commented. “Marine LNG, as a clean alternative fuel, can significantly reduce the emission of these pollutants, making it widely favoured and applied.”
The Peony Leader was built by Guangzhou CSSC Longxue Shipbuilding and delivered in September 2024 to its owner COSCO Shipping Specialized Carriers.
PCTC expansion
COSCO Shipping, in collaboration with SIPG Logistics and Anji Logistics, expects to take delivery of six more 7,500 CEU dual-fuel LNG car carriers over the next two years, further bolstering its fleet with advanced, eco-friendly vessels.
“In recent years, COSCO Shipping Specialized Carriers has been proactively developing a ‘three-core and three-chain’ automotive logistics industry framework,” the firm notes.“This initiative is centred on constructing a green and efficient world-class fleet. Between 2024 and 2026, over 20 PCTCs are expected to be delivered and operational, forming approximately 30 specialized PCTC fleets.”
Headquartered in Shanghai, COSCO is a state-owned conglomerate and one of the largest container carriers in operation.
