Shanghai, China | April 7, 2025 – China Marine Bunker (PetroChina) Co., Ltd. (CHIMBUSCO) has achieved a major breakthrough by completing China’s first fully digitalized bonded bunkering operation through the adoption of an electronic Bunker Delivery Note (eBDN) — a digital replacement for the conventional paper-based document. Utilizing an advanced electronic metering system, the eBDN automatically records and transmits bunkering data, significantly improving accuracy, transparency, and operational efficiency across all stakeholders. This achievement represents a key milestone in the ongoing digital transformation of China’s marine fuel supply chain.
The breakthrough operation took place on April 1, 2025, and involved the fueling of the COSCO Shipping ultra-large container vessel “CSCL GLOBE” by China Marine Bunker (PetroChina) Co., Ltd. Utilizing China’s inaugural electronic Bunker Delivery Note (eBDN) system, this operation has set a powerful precedent for the future of maritime bunkering in China and beyond.
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Digital First: Transforming Bunkering from Analog to Autonomous
The operation saw the delivery of 1,300 metric tons of low-sulfur fuel oil to the CSCL GLOBE at Shengdong Terminal—but unlike conventional bunkering, this delivery was entirely paperless and data-driven. The revolutionary eBDN system replaced the traditional paper-based documentation with a fully integrated digital platform that enables real-time fuel monitoring, instantaneous document generation, and seamless regulatory coordination.
This new system leverages a digital mass flow metering system, which transmits precise fuel quantity data in real time to relevant stakeholders—including customs, maritime authorities, the fuel supplier, and the vessel operator. By eliminating manual inputs and physical paperwork, the system ensures greater accuracy, enhanced transparency, and reduced administrative burden.
A Collaborative Technological Milestone
This achievement was not realized in isolation. It represents the result of intensive cross-sector collaboration among major stakeholders operating in Shanghai’s Lin-gang Special Area, including:
- China Marine Bunker (PetroChina) Co., Ltd.
- COSCO Shipping Technology Co., Ltd.
- Shanghai Port Authority
- Customs and maritime regulatory bodies
Together, these entities co-developed an end-to-end digital bonded bunkering platform that manages every stage of the process—from the vessel’s initial fueling request and digital contract execution, to customs declarations, real-time monitoring, and the automatic generation of the eBDN.
During the trial operation, CSCL GLOBE initiated a digital bunkering request via the new platform. This triggered a synchronized chain of digital events: fuel request validation, online regulatory clearance, real-time fuel delivery monitoring via mass flow meters, and instantaneous e-document creation—all processed without any physical paperwork.
CHIMBUSCO and COSCO SHIPPING Strengthen Partnership in Digital Bunkering
The successful operation reflects the strong partnership between CHIMBUSCO and COSCO SHIPPING, two key players driving innovation in China’s maritime energy sector. Leveraging CHIMBUSCO’s deep expertise in marine fuel supply and COSCO SHIPPING’s advanced digital and operational capabilities, the collaboration exemplifies how integrated efforts can accelerate the modernization of the bunkering industry. As the leading bonded bunker supplier in China, CHIMBUSCO continues to play a pivotal role in spearheading digital transformation across the marine fuel supply chain, setting new benchmarks for efficiency, transparency, and sustainability in global shipping.
Efficiency Meets Compliance
The eBDN not only simplifies logistics and back-office operations, but also accelerates customs clearance and enables precise tracking of carbon emissions, aligning with environmental compliance requirements and sustainability goals.
Critically, the system allows automated digital settlements, reducing the time-consuming reconciliation processes that have long plagued traditional bunkering procedures. Stakeholders benefit from faster turnaround times, lower transaction costs, and improved operational security.
Global Implications: Aligning with IMO Digitalization Goals
This landmark achievement comes as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) continues to advocate for digitalization across the maritime sector. In July 2023, the IMO formally endorsed the adoption of electronic Bunker Delivery Notes (eBDNs) as part of its strategy to modernize documentation practices in line with the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL).
By aligning with these international standards, Shanghai not only reinforces its status as a leading international shipping center, but also positions itself as a trailblazer in the global push for green, transparent, and digitally advanced port operations.
Shanghai’s Vision: A Blueprint for Global Maritime Innovation
This digital bunkering milestone represents more than a technological upgrade—it embodies Shanghai’s strategic ambition to lead the world in smart port development and logistics innovation. As global shipping routes grow increasingly complex and fuel regulations more stringent, digital infrastructure like the eBDN system will be essential for maintaining competitiveness, sustainability, and compliance.
Shanghai’s successful trial of fully digital bunkering lays the groundwork for nationwide adoption across Chinese ports and presents a scalable model for international maritime hubs seeking to modernize their fueling operations.
The Future of Bunkering Has Arrived
The completion of China’s first fully digital bunkering operation at Shanghai Port marks a turning point for the maritime fuel industry. Through strategic collaboration, advanced technology, and regulatory integration, Shanghai has set a new global benchmark—demonstrating what is possible when innovation meets execution.
As the shipping industry continues to navigate the twin challenges of digital transformation and environmental responsibility, Shanghai’s success story serves as a compass for the future—where efficiency, compliance, and sustainability converge on a digital platform.
About the Port of Shanghai
The Port of Shanghai is the world’s busiest container port and a critical gateway for international trade and maritime logistics. Strategically located at the mouth of the Yangtze River Delta, it serves as a vital hub connecting China with global markets. Renowned for its state-of-the-art infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and commitment to sustainable development, the Port of Shanghai continuously drives innovation to enhance efficiency, safety, and environmental stewardship.
As a leading international shipping center, the port plays a pivotal role in advancing China’s maritime economy, fostering global trade, and supporting the digital transformation of the shipping industry.
About CHIMBUSCO
CHIMBUSCO, formally China Marine Bunker (PetroChina) Co. Ltd., stands as the national champion in marine fuel supply, established in 1972 and restructured in 2003 with primary shareholders being COSCO and PetroChina. Operating from its Beijing headquarters, the company commands the most extensive network in China, featuring over 30 branch offices across all major ports, including Shanghai, Ningbo, and Tianjin. Its substantial physical assets include nearly 70 barges for delivery and 12 oil depots with a massive total storage capacity of approximately 1.45 million cubic meters. This infrastructure allows CHIMBUSCO to efficiently supply traditional fuel oil, lubricants, and water to domestic and international vessels.
About COSCO SHIPPING Lines
COSCO SHIPPING Lines is a key business unit of COSCO SHIPPING Group, established through the merger of COSCO Container Lines Co., Ltd. and China Shipping Container Lines CO., Ltd. in 2016. Headquartered in Shanghai, the company operates a vast global shipping network, with domestic branches in nine major Chinese ports and international offices across Europe, North America, Southeast Asia, West Asia, South America, Australia, Japan, Korea, and Africa.
As of July 2024, COSCO SHIPPING Lines owns and operates 403 container vessels with a total capacity of 2.3 million TEUs. Including its subsidiary Orient Overseas International, the fleet expands to 529 vessels with a total capacity of 3.2 million TEUs.
With 413 shipping routes, including 275 international routes, the company services 617 ports in 145 countries and regions. Employing 16,700 professionals worldwide, COSCO SHIPPING Lines remains a leader in innovation, efficiency, and sustainability within the global shipping industry.
Source COSCO SHIPPING Lines