In a significant move to strengthen bunkering operations in the region, CPG Bunkering and the Maputo Port Development Company (MPDC) have extended their partnership for the provision of marine fuel and lubricant supply at the Port of Maputo, Maputo, Mozambique. The new agreement, signed on September 26, 2024, marks an important milestone in ensuring the port remains a strategic hub for maritime fuel services in East Africa.
Additional Bunker Tanker Deployed to Meet Growing Fuel Demand
As part of this agreement, CPG Bunkering will deploy an additional bunker tanker, the CPG Alma, alongside the existing CPG Alix, increasing the efficiency and capacity for refueling vessels. This expansion is a response to the growing demand for marine fuel at the Port of Maputo, which serves as a gateway for hinterland countries such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Eswatini.
With two bunker barges now in operation, the port will be able to offer more reliable at-berth fuel supplies during cargo handling operations. Additionally, the increased capacity allows for more bunker-only calls at anchorage, enhancing the port’s ability to service vessels quickly and efficiently.
Comprehensive Marine Fuel and Lubricant Services
The extended agreement covers the supply of all grades of marine fuels, lubricants, and ship-to-ship transfer services, ensuring that the Port of Maputo remains a reliable and comprehensive fuel hub. CPG Bunkering and MPDC are also exploring future possibilities for alternative bunker fuels, including biofuels, LNG, methanol, and ammonia, reflecting the industry’s shift towards sustainable fuel solutions.
Both CPG Alma (IMO 9326677) and CPG Alix (IMO 9418406) are now fully operational in the Port of Maputo and have commenced services, further bolstering the port’s ability to meet the rising bunkering demands of vessels operating in the region.
Importance of the Port of Maputo in Bunkering
The Port of Maputo, Mozambique’s largest port, plays a critical role in the Southern African maritime industry. Strategically located at Latitude 25º 58′ S and Longitude 32º 33′ E, it serves as a key access point to landlocked countries like Zimbabwe, South Africa, Botswana, and Eswatini. The port handles over 15 berths and spans approximately 4,000 meters of quay space, managing a variety of bulk and general cargo.
Bunkering at the Port of Maputo is an essential service, with operations possible both at berth while vessels load or discharge cargo, and at the secure anchorage near Buoy 6. The port’s protected bunkering area ensures safety and operational efficiency, making it a favored location for vessels requiring fuel in the region.
Rising Demand Amid Global Crises
The importance of bunkering in the Port of Maputo has been further amplified due to global geopolitical crises, particularly the ongoing disruptions in the Red Sea region. These crises have led to increased maritime traffic around the Cape of Good Hope, and vessels are increasingly turning to East African ports like Maputo for their bunkering needs. The strategic location of the port, combined with its enhanced fuel supply capabilities, has positioned it as a crucial player in mitigating the fuel supply challenges posed by these disruptions.
As vessel operators look for stable and reliable fuel hubs, the partnership between MPDC and CPG Bunkering is set to play a pivotal role in supporting international shipping routes, ensuring that ships can safely and efficiently refuel as they navigate through the Southern African maritime corridors.
CPG Bunkering in Brief
CPG Bunkering, a subsidiary of Civitas Partners Group, has been a key player in Southern Africa’s bunkering market since 2012. The company operates extensive bunkering services in both Maputo and Nacala, offering competitive and efficient marine fuel supply. With its own storage facilities and dedicated in-port delivery barges, CPG Bunkering is equipped to supply various grades of marine fuels both at anchorage and at berth.
Since 2018, CPG Bunkering has completed over 700,000 tons of fuel deliveries through ship-to-ship transfers, demonstrating its experience and reliability in the region. The company adheres to stringent safety and environmental standards, ensuring safe operations for employees, customers, and the environment.
Mission & Vision: CPG Bunkering is driven by its mission to become the leading bunker supplier in the East African region, offering competitive services to vessels transiting or trading in the area. The company values safety, reliability, and ambition, aiming to expand its operations and provide regionally competitive services that meet international standards.
Our Services & Products: CPG Bunkering supplies marine fuel in compliance with ISO 8217:2017/2010 standards, and all deliveries are conducted using internationally certified equipment and procedures. The company’s barges are equipped with segregated tanks to allow for the delivery of multiple fuel grades, ensuring operational flexibility and efficiency.
As the partnership with MPDC continues, CPG Bunkering remains committed to providing a reliable and competitive service, positioning itself as a key contributor to the growth of the Port of Maputo as a critical bunkering hub in Southern Africa.
The Road Ahead
The extended partnership between Maputo Port Development Company (MPDC) and CPG Bunkering reflects the growing demand for bunkering services in the region, driven by both local maritime activity and increased international shipping traffic. With the potential introduction of alternative fuels such as LNG, biofuels, and ammonia, the Port of Maputo is poised to become a forward-thinking, sustainable bunkering hub, serving not only today’s maritime needs but also the future of green shipping.
Source CPG Bunkering