In March 2024, the average monthly price of very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO) stood at 664.5 U.S. dollars per metric ton. The price of VLSFO is strongly influenced by external factors, such as the price of crude oil and market forces of supply and demand. In the past two years, two separate events have had a profound effect on the price of VLSFO: the International Maritime Organization (IMO) sulfur cap on fuel oil in 2020 and, more recently, the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Israeli invasion of Gaza.

Effects of the 2020 IMO sulfur cap

In January 2020, a new limit on the sulfur content in fuel oil was introduced by the IMO. The goal of the cap was to reduce the concentration of sulfur in the air, thus reducing air pollution and preventing harm to marine ecosystems as well as protecting human health. Ship operators were forced to switch to VLSFO to comply with the new regulation, leading to a higher demand for VLSFO which in turn caused the price of VLSFO to increase to 649 U.S. dollars per metric ton in January 2020.

Shortly afterward, the world was hit with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. With production facilities shutting down worldwide, maritime transport considerably slowed, driving the price of VLSFO to a historic minimum of 251 U.S. dollars per metric ton in April 2020.

Escalating conflict in Ukraine could raise fuel prices

After the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, most of the West reacted by imposing sanctions on Russia to weaken its economy. Although vital for the Russian economy, the Russian oil industry remained untargeted by direct sanctions during the first days of the invasion. However, sanctions cutting off Russia’s access to international financial markets and the SWIFT payment system, as well as divestments of Western oil companies from the Russian oil industry, could severely impact the country’s oil sector.

In 2020, Russia was the third-largest producer of crude oil in the world, accounting for about 12 percent of the world’s crude oil production. Disruptions to the Russian oil industry could, therefore, have consequences for the supply of oil to the global market and drive prices up. Since crude oil is the main component of VLSFO, an increase in the price of crude oil will most likely lead to a rise in the price of VLSFO.

Average bunker fuel prices ($/metric ton) for Intermediate Fuel Oil (IFO) 380CST, IFO 180CST, Marine Gas, and Very Low Sulfur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) across 20 major global bunkering locations.

Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Fuel Oil in different regions across the world (Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East Africa).

The daily price of very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO) has been oscillating since the beginning of January 2022. On December 13, 2022, the price of VLSFO stood at 636 U.S. dollars per metric ton. With the onset of the Russia-Ukraine war, the price of bunker fuel has notably increased in 2022, before dropping again at the end of the year.

Snapshot img

Bunker Fuel Market Size 2024-2028

The bunker fuel market size is forecast to increase by USD 30.1 billion at a CAGR of 4.18% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to several key factors. One of the primary drivers is the increasing naval expenditure by various countries to expand their maritime capabilities. Additionally, the growing demand for LNG is leading to an increase in demand for bunker fuel as LNG carriers require large quantities of fuel for their operations. 
Furthermore, fluctuations in oil and gas prices, including oil and gas storage, continue to impact the market, with price volatility creating both opportunities and challenges for market participants. Overall, these trends are shaping the future of the market and are expected to drive its growth In the coming years.

What will be the Size of the Bunker Fuel Market During the Forecast Period?

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The market, a crucial backbone of international logistics and marine transportation, continues to evolve in response to global trade trends and emission regulations. Bunker fuel, also known as marine fuel, is essential for powering vessels, with the cruise sector being a significant consumer. The market's size is substantial, driven by the constant demand for fuel to facilitate cargo operations and propel LNG-powered and conventional vessels. Sulphur content is a critical factor influencing market dynamics, with increasing emphasis on cleaner fuels to reduce the carbon footprint of marine transportation. Sulfur fuel with lower emissions is becoming increasingly popular, as logistics and economic performance increasingly hinge on adherence to emission regulations.
Infrastructure construction, including LNG bunkering vessels and LNG ports, is a significant trend, with key hubs emerging in ports such as Portsmouth, Saint-Malo, and Ouistreham. The conversion of existing vessels to LNG-powered propulsion is also gaining momentum, further boosting the market's growth. LNG bunkering is poised to play a pivotal role In the future of marine fuels, with liquefied bio-methane emerging as a potential alternative. The global decarbonization goals are a driving force behind these trends, as the maritime industry seeks to reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future for international logistics.

How is this Bunker Fuel Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The bunker fuel industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Type

  MGO
  HSFO
  VLFSO


Application

  Container
  Bulk carrier
  Oil tanker
  General cargo
  Chemical tanker


Geography

  APAC

    China
    India


  Europe

    Germany


  Middle East and Africa



  North America

    US


  South America

By Type Insights

The mgo segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Marine gas oil (MGO), a distillate fuel derived from crude oil through refining processes, is widely used in marine transportation due to its lower sulfur content compared to heavy fuel oils (HFO). Stricter emission regulations, particularly in Emission Control Areas (ECAs), mandate the use of cleaner fuels like MGO to limit sulfur emissions. MGO's lower viscosity and density make it easier to handle and burn compared to HFO. The global shift towards decarbonization goals is driving the demand for cleaner marine fuels over bunker oil. Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is an emerging alternative to traditional bunker fuels. Key players and several ship owners are investing in LNG bunkering agreements to reduce their carbon footprint.

Infrastructure construction for LNG bunkering vessels and LNG ports is ongoing in major ports such as Portsmouth, Saint-Malo, Ouistreham, Ningbo-Zhoushan, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Shenzen. The maritime industry's economic performance and global trade trends necessitate the constant demand for marine fuels. Product innovation by oil production firms and the cruise sector are crucial in meeting the demand for cleaner fuels while adhering to emission regulations.

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The MGO segment was valued at USD 48.90 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 33% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The Asia Pacific (APAC) region dominates the global seaborne trade, making it a significant

Graph and download economic data for Average Price: Fuel Oil #2 per Gallon (3.785 Liters) in Washington, DC-MD-VA (CBSA) (APUA31572511) from Nov 1978 to Dec 1997 about DC, Washington, fuels, MD, energy, VA, urban, retail, price, and USA.

Snapshot img { margin: 10px !important; } The fuel oil market size will decrease by USD 84.77 billion during 2020-2024. This report provides a detailed analysis of the market by application (marine, industrial, and others) and geography (APAC, Europe, MEA, North America, and South America). Also, the report analyzes the market’s competitive landscape and offers information on several market vendors, including BP Plc, Chevron Corp., Exxon Mobil Corp., JXTG Holdings Inc., PJSC LUKOIL, PT Pertamina(Persero), Qatar Petroleum, Reliance Industries Ltd., Royal Dutch Shell Plc, and SK Innovation Co. Ltd.

Market Overview

Browse TOC and LoE with selected illustrations and example pages of Fuel Oil Market

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Market Competitive Analysis

The fuel oil market is fragmented with numerous vendors that produce and supply fuel oil to customers. Vendors need to make high capital investments to remain competitive in the market. BP Plc, Chevron Corp., and Exxon Mobil Corp. are some of the major market participants. Although the rise in world energy demand will offer immense growth opportunities, the fluctuations in crude oil prices will challenge the growth of the market participants. To make the most of the opportunities, market vendors should focus more on the growth prospects in the fast-growing segments, while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments.

To help clients improve their market position, this fuel oil market forecast report provides a detailed analysis of the market leaders and offers information on the competencies and capacities of these companies. The report also covers details on the market’s competitive landscape and offers information on the products offered by various companies. Moreover, this fuel oil market analysis report also provides information on the upcoming trends and challenges that will influence market growth. This will help companies create strategies to make the most of future growth opportunities.

This report provides information on the production, sustainability, and prospects of several leading companies, including:

BP Plc
Chevron Corp.
Exxon Mobil Corp.
JXTG Holdings Inc.
PJSC LUKOIL
PT Pertamina(Persero)
Qatar Petroleum
Reliance Industries Ltd.
Royal Dutch Shell Plc
SK Innovation Co. Ltd.

Fuel Oil Market: Segmentation by Application

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The primary requirement of any marine engine is to propel the ship or generate onsite power by using the energy obtained from burning fuel oil. The mega marine engines of ships burn tons of fuel every day to propel the massively loaded ships. The rise in demand for bunker fuel oil due to the growing seaborne trade and growing naval activities will drive the demand for fuel oil for marine.

However, market growth in this segment will be slower than the growth of the market in the industrial and other segments. This report provides an accurate prediction of the contribution of all the segments to the growth of the fuel oil market size.

Fuel Oil Market: Segmentation by Geography

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North America will offer several growth opportunities to market vendors during the forecast period. The strong consumption of space heating fuel, growing refinery capacity, and proliferating marine trade will significantly influence fuel oil market growth in this region over the forecast period. The US is a key market for fuel oil in North America.

Fuel Oil Market: Key Drivers and Trends

The fluctuation in oil prices has affected the business of several oil and gas companies and refinancing companies. As a result, crude oil processing projects generate less revenue and many oil and gas companies suspend or postpone their exploration and production projects. Fluctuations in crude oil prices also impact investments in E&P and refining projects. Such factors will result in a slowdown in the growth of the global fuel oil market during the forecast period.

The adoption of blockchain in the oil and gas industry helps in overcoming several issues including the complexity of logistics, high fuel prices, and environmental pollution. Blockchain platforms facilitate secure and faster transactions between the entities and maintain transparency. Blockchain also helps in reducing cash cycle time and intermediary costs. These benefits will result in an increase in the adoption of blockchain to enhance the overall operational efficiency of the existing refineries. As a result of such factors, the fuel oil market will register a CAGR of (13)% during the forecast period.

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Fuel Oil Market: Key Highlights of the Report for 2020-2024

CAGR of the market

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global bunker fuel oil market size is USD 115954.2 million in 2024 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.30% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market of more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 46381.68 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.5% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a share of over 30% of the global market size of USD 34786.26 million.
Asia Pacific held the market of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 26669.47 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.3% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America market of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 5797.71 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.7% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa held the major market of around 2% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 2319.08 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.0% from 2024 to 2031.
The Tanker Fleet segment held the highest bunker fuel oil market revenue share in 2024.

Market Dynamics of Bunker Fuel Oil Market

Key Drivers for Bunker Fuel Oil Market

Expanding Maritime Trade Activities and Increasing Fleet Sizes Driving Demand for Bunker Fuel Oil

As trade continues to expand, shipping companies have had to add new vessels to their fleets to carry out the growing volume of products passing through their harbours. Thus, demand on bunker fuel oil has increased. This is especially true in regions that are going through fast economic growth and rapid industrialization. Not to lay one’s infrastructure at the foundation of trade and business, for instance cargo ships, ports and other installations, is unthinkable in developed countries.

Regulatory Changes Mandating Low-Sulfur Fuels Catalyzing Market Growth

In response to the increasing demands for cleaner fuels and reduced emissions from shipping traffic, even low-sulphur bunker fuel oils are being adopted.Raising its exhaust emissions costs even higher, the crew dropped from heavy fuel oil to Marine Gas Oil (MGO) and Diesel Oil.This move towards greener fuels, however, does not come just out of compliance with regulations. The accelerated use has arisen from a global focus for all sectors to produce cleaner environmental benefits and results, as evidenced by governments promoting low-sulphur bunker fuels.

Restraint Factor for the Bunker fuel oil market

Volatility in Crude Oil Prices and Geopolitical Uncertainties Impeding Bunker Fuel Oil Market Growth

The strength of international market for heavy or residual fuel oil are the price of crude, the cost all factors considered and eventually price. At any time, variations in price cannot be neglected due to influences such as world politics which impinge directly on production costs for bunker fuel oils and this brings huge instability.Such as supply and demand, geopolitical pressures or economic climate could send the price of crude into a tailspin. This poses another major challenge for suppliers and buyers of bunker fuel oil, raising questions about investment decision-making as well as operational planning. In addition, geopolitical events such as conflicts or sanctions in major oil-producing regions (or shipping lanes) may disrupt supply chains and affect either the availability or pricing of bunker fuel oils. That further inflates market volatility and makes it that much harder to predict how long such conditions will continue.

Impact of Covid-19 on the Bunker Fuel Oil Market

During the Covid-19 pandemic, the oil bunker fuel market, seemingly near their end, was deeply troubled in large part because globalised trade and maritime activities swooned to a degree which had never been witnessed before in history. Decreased demand for goods and commodities, combined with drastic travel restrictions and blockade measures, caused shipping volume and maritime traffic to drop significantly, affecting the consumption of bunker fuel. companies hit head-on by the pandemic's economic impact, their financial resources and operational systems stretched to breaking point, were no longer able to offset shipborne bunker fuel oil with land tankers. with demand for ship fuel oil plummeting and prices also falling, the bunker fuel market showed again how susceptible it is to global economic tu...

Graph and download economic data for Average Price: Fuel Oil #2 per Gallon (3.785 Liters) in the Midwest Census Region - Urban (APU020072511) from Nov 1978 to Jul 2024 about fuels, energy, retail, price, and USA.

Graph and download economic data for Average Price: Fuel Oil #2 per Gallon (3.785 Liters) in U.S. City Average (APU000072511) from Nov 1978 to Apr 2025 about fuels, energy, retail, price, and USA.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Bunker Fuel market size is USD XX million in 2023 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of XX% from 2024 to 2031.

• The global Bunker Fuel market will expand significantly by XX% CAGR between 2024 to 2031. • North America held the major market of more than XX% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2023 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of XX% from 2024 to 2031. • Europe accounted for a share of over XX% of the global market size of USD XX million. • Asia Pacific held a market of around XX% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2023 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of XX% from 2024 to 2031. • Latin America's market will have more than XX% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2023 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of XX% from 2024 to 2031. • Middle East and Africa held the major market of around XX% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2023 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of XX% from 2024 to 2031. • The very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO) segment is set to rise due to the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) 2020 sulfur cap requirements, which required a significant reduction in sulfur content in maritime fuels, very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO) constituted the largest segment. • The Bunker Fuel market is driven by expansion in global trade, increasing demand in the shipping industry, technological advancements, rapid industrialization in emerging markets, and a rise in exploration activities. • Containers segment held the highest Bunker Fuel market revenue share in 2023.

Key Dynamics of

Bunker Fuel Market

Key Drivers of

Bunker Fuel Market

Increasing global maritime trade volume: The growth in international seaborne trade, propelled by container shipping, oil transportation, and bulk commodities, has led to a heightened demand for bunker fuel, which continues to be the primary energy source for commercial shipping vessels across the globe.

Expansion of shipping fleets and offshore operations: The introduction of new cargo ships, tankers, and offshore exploration platforms—particularly in the Asia-Pacific region and the Middle East—has resulted in increased fuel consumption, solidifying bunker fuel as an essential element of global logistics and energy infrastructure.

Infrastructure investments in port bunkering facilities: Significant ports are making investments in sophisticated fuel supply terminals, including LNG and VLSFO bunkering stations. This growth in infrastructure enhances availability and motivates vessel owners to persist in their reliance on bunker fuels.

Key Restraints for

Bunker Fuel Market

Stringent IMO regulations on sulfur emissions: The International Maritime Organization’s 0.5% sulfur cap (IMO 2020) has limited the use of high-sulfur fuel oils, compelling shipowners to transition to more expensive alternatives such as low-sulfur fuel or to retrofit scrubbers, which raises compliance costs.

Volatility in crude oil prices: Since bunker fuel is produced from crude oil, global price variations have a direct effect on bunker fuel expenses. This results in budgeting difficulties for shipping companies and influences the pricing of long-term fuel contracts.

Environmental concerns and shift to greener fuels: Increasing scrutiny regarding greenhouse gas emissions is driving the shipping industry towards LNG, biofuels, and electric propulsion. This long-term shift may diminish the demand for conventional bunker fuels, especially residual and heavy fuel oils.

Key Trends in

Bunker Fuel Market

The increasing adoption of LNG as a marine fuel: LNG is becoming more popular as a cleaner option due to its reduced sulfur and nitrogen oxide emissions. The presence of dual-fuel engines and the expansion of LNG bunkering networks signify a transition in fuel selection aimed at compliance and sustainability.

The development of alternative fuels and blends: Biofuels, ammonia, and methanol are b...

The Report Covers Bunker Fuel Companies in Singapore and it is segmented by Fuel Type (High Sulfur Fuel Oil (HSFO), Very Low Sulfur Fuel Oil (VLSFO), Marine Gas Oil (MGO), Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), and Others (Methanol, LPG, Biodiesel), and Vessel Type (Containers, Tankers, General Cargo, Bulk Container, and Others).

8429 Global export shipment records of Bunker Fuel with prices, volume & current Buyer's suppliers relationships based on actual Global export trade database.

Comprehensive historical data and future forecasts for Fuel Oil prices in China, crucial for market analysis and strategic planning.

Refiners in the United States sold residual fuel for an average of 1.86 U.S. dollars per gallon in 2021. This was an increase compared to the previous year. The drop in 2020 is a reflection of the WTI crude oil price development. The lowest end user price for residual fuel was recorded in 1995, when consumers paid only 39 cents per gallon.

Uruguay Fuel Oil Price: Heavy data was reported at 21.450 UYU/l in Oct 2018. This stayed constant from the previous number of 21.450 UYU/l for Sep 2018. Uruguay Fuel Oil Price: Heavy data is updated monthly, averaging 11.510 UYU/l from Jul 1999 (Median) to Oct 2018, with 232 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 21.450 UYU/l in Oct 2018 and a record low of 1.300 UYU/l in Nov 1999. Uruguay Fuel Oil Price: Heavy data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by National Institute of Statistics. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Uruguay – Table UY.RB003: Energy Statistics: Petroleum.

The Average Home Heating Oil Prices dataset provides New York residents and businesses with objective information on average residential retail heating fuel oil pricing in New York State and by region beginning September 8, 1997. Pricing data is obtained via surveys conducted by NYSERDA staff on a weekly basis during heating season (September to March) and bi-weekly during the rest of the year. All prices are listed in dollars per gallon. The Average Home Heating Oil Prices dataset, Average Residential Retail Kerosene Prices dataset, and Average Residential Retail Propane Prices dataset are collectively referred to as the Heating Fuel Prices dataset. For current and historical residential retail price data, regional comparisons, and fuel type comparisons, please visit the Home Heating Oil Prices Dashboard: https://www.nyserda.ny.gov/Researchers-and-Policymakers/Energy-Prices/Home-Heating-Oil/Average-Home-Heating-Oil-Prices The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) offers objective information and analysis, innovative programs, technical expertise, and support to help New Yorkers increase energy efficiency, save money, use renewable energy, accelerate economic growth, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. To learn more about NYSERDA’s programs, visit nyserda.ny.gov or follow us on X, Facebook, YouTube, or Instagram.

The North America bunker fuel market, valued at approximately $XX million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) exceeding 6.5% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is driven by several factors. The increasing global trade volume, particularly within North America, necessitates a higher demand for bunker fuels to power vessels across various sectors like container shipping, tankers, and bulk carriers. Stringent environmental regulations, pushing for the adoption of cleaner fuels like Very Low Sulfur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), are also significantly shaping market dynamics. While the shift towards cleaner alternatives presents opportunities, it also presents challenges for the industry. The higher cost associated with VLSFO and LNG compared to traditional High Sulfur Fuel Oil (HSFO) might restrain market growth to some extent, especially in the short term. Furthermore, fluctuating crude oil prices and geopolitical instability can significantly impact the overall market outlook. The market segmentation reveals a strong presence of VLSFO and MGO, driven by regulatory compliance, while LNG adoption is steadily increasing, albeit from a relatively smaller base. The United States holds the largest market share within North America, followed by Canada and the rest of the region, reflecting the concentration of port activities and shipping lanes. Major players like Repsol, BP, Shell, TotalEnergies, ExxonMobil, and Chevron are actively involved in supplying bunker fuels, competing fiercely to capitalize on this growing market. The market's future trajectory will heavily depend on the pace of LNG adoption and the implementation of stricter environmental regulations. The ongoing development of alternative fuels and technologies will also play a crucial role in shaping the market's landscape in the coming years. The competitive landscape is expected to remain intense, with companies focusing on strategic partnerships, technological advancements, and optimized supply chains to maintain their market position. The continued growth of e-commerce and globalization will support the long-term growth of the North American bunker fuel market, despite the challenges posed by fluctuating prices and environmental concerns. A deeper analysis into specific regional trends within the US and Canada will reveal more granular insights into localized market drivers and opportunities. Recent developments include: In September 2021, Chevron USA Inc., a subsidiary of Chevron Corporation, and Caterpillar Inc. announced a collaborative agreement to develop hydrogen demonstration projects in transportation and stationary power applications, including prime power. The goal of the collaboration is to confirm the feasibility and performance of hydrogen for use as a commercially viable alternative to traditional fuels for line-haul rail and marine vessels. The collaboration also seeks to demonstrate hydrogen's use in prime power.. Notable trends are: Very Low Sulfur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) Expected to be the Fastest-growing Segment.

Graph and download economic data for Average Price: Fuel Oil #2 per Gallon (3.785 Liters) in Size Class A (APUS00072511) from Jan 1987 to May 2025 about fuels, energy, retail, price, and USA.

Heating Oil rose to 2.13 USD/Gal on June 6, 2025, up 1.84% from the previous day. Over the past month, Heating Oil's price has risen 7.87%, but it is still 9.65% lower than a year ago, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Heating oil - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on June of 2025.