Zhoushan has been the fastest-growing major bunker hub of the past decade, climbing to approximately 7.0 million tonnes in 2024 — fourth globally. The port's rise was driven by China's establishment of the Zhejiang Pilot Free Trade Zone, which permits bonded (duty-free) bunker sales to international vessels, combined with aggressive infrastructure investment.
Zhoushan Municipal Port Authority; bonded bunker operations under Zhejiang Free Trade Zone
Seven Ocean procures the following marine fuel grades at Zhoushan. Click any grade for full technical specifications.
Multiple designated anchorages within Ningbo-Zhoushan port complex
Until the mid-2010s, international bunkering in China was constrained by tax treatment. The free trade zone regime made bonded fuel commercially viable at Zhoushan, and state-backed suppliers — notably China Marine Bunker (Chimbusco) — built scale rapidly. In 2024, Chimbusco became the world's largest marine fuel supplier by volume.
The combined Ningbo-Zhoushan port is the world's largest by cargo tonnage. Bunker operations are distributed across the archipelago, with dedicated anchorages at strategic points. Vessels calling container terminals at Ningbo-Zhoushan can efficiently bundle bunkering with cargo operations.
VLSFO and HSFO are standard; LSMGO for ECA and auxiliary use is widely supplied. China has designated Domestic Emission Control Areas (DECAs) that impose a 0.10% sulphur cap within 12 nautical miles of shore — LSMGO demand inside DECAs is accordingly high. LNG infrastructure is expanding; biofuel trials have commenced.
Documentation is in Chinese and English; commercial dealings with international suppliers are straightforward. Winter weather (November-March) can bring short weather delays from northerly winds. Typical nomination lead time is 3-5 days.
Seven Ocean procures marine fuel at every major global hub. Tell us the vessel, the port, the grade, and we'll come back with a stem.
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