Bunkering remains halted in Zona Comun amid bad weather

Bunker operations have been suspended at Argentina’s Zona Comun anchorage due to rough weather conditions since last week.

PHOTO: Vessels at Argentina's Zona Comun anchorage by La Plata. Antares

The anchorage is currently experiencing strong gale-force wind gusts of up to 35 knots and the weather is forecast to remain rough until Thursday.

Due to persistent weather disruptions, availability of fuel grades in Zona Comun is extremely tight. The earliest delivery date with one supplier there is 28 April. Several other suppliers are not offering deliveries until next month.

A barge in Zona Comun has been experiencing technical issues, which has added to the bunkering disruption there, Antares Ship Agents says.

Demand has been picking up as the grain season commences and the shipping agency expects a “busy year” ahead for bunkering operations at the anchorage.

Currently, more than 10 vessels are waiting to bunker at the anchorage, a source says.

By Debarati Bhattacharjee

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