Mass flow metres mandatory in Rotterdam and Antwerp-Bruges from 2026

Bunker vessels operating in the ports of Rotterdam and Antwerp-Bruges will have to use mass flow meters (MFMs) for all fuel oil, gasoil and biofuel deliveries from January next year, the port authorities have said.

IMAGE: The Europoort area in the Port of Rotterdam. Getty Images

Growing demand for accurate and transparent measurements to resolve fuel quantity disputes is driving wider adoption of MFMs by the bunker industry, as they offer a more reliable alternative to basic measurements overseen by a surveyor.

In Singapore, the world’s largest bunkering port, MFMs are mandatory for all bunker deliveries.

Rotterdam and Antwerp-Bruges's port authorities said in their statements that suppliers will have to certify and register MFM systems with the Harbour Master before 1 January 2026. If they fail to do so, they can be fined and get their licenses revoked.

A valid bunkering license still remains mandatory for delivering these fuels, Rotterdam's port authority added.

By Nachiket Tekawade

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