- Global fuel oil markets surged in early 2026, driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and supply disruptions affecting crude shipments.
- Concerns over navigation risks and potential congestion in the Strait of Hormuz elevated risk premiums, pushing international crude and marine fuel prices higher.
- Tight feedstock availability and shipping demand supported domestic fuel oil markets across major consuming regions.
Asia
In Asia, China’s domestic ship fuel market saw a sharp increase, with prices rising from about 0.76 RMB/kg (Spot) in January and around 0.89 RMB/kg in March. Early-year supply constraints, combined with rising international crude prices, drove market gains. Cold weather and increased coal transportation amplified demand for coastal shipping fuel. Singapore inventory data showed declining residual fuel oil stocks, reinforcing a tight supply environment. However, China’s domestic ship fuel market saw a sharp 15.1 % price increase from February to March. The rise was driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which disrupted crude flows and increased insurance and shipping costs. In India, marine fuel prices reflected rising crude import costs and seasonal shipping activity, with logistical constraints moderating extreme volatility.
Europe
In Europe, fuel oil prices strengthened as Brent crude rose due to geopolitical tensions and reduced OPEC+ output. Tight refinery margins and planned maintenance limited local supply, while increased imports from the Middle East partially offset shortages. Elevated crude feedstock costs, along with moderate demand from coastal shipping, supported steady upward pricing.
North America
In North America, US marine fuel prices tracked international crude trends, with WTI surging on Middle East risk premiums and disruptions from winter storms. East Coast ports increased fuel imports from Canada and the Caribbean to maintain inventory levels. Refinery utilization near capacity constrained local supply, amplifying sensitivity to international crude volatility. Downstream shipping demand remained stable but influenced by seasonal cargo shifts and inventory replenishment.