Sinopec Chimbusco (Liaoning), a subsidiary of China Shipping & Sinopec Suppliers Co., Ltd., one of the largest Chinese trading companies for bunkers. Backed by Sinopec and Cosco Shipping, achieved a historic milestone by successfully completing China’s first ammonia bunkering operation. The groundbreaking event took place at the COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry (Dalian) dockyard, where the newly constructed 5,500HP ammonia-powered tugboat, Yuantuo No. 1, was fueled.
This landmark achievement not only demonstrates the company’s technical prowess but also marks a significant step forward in China’s clean energy transition for the maritime industry.
China Maritime Energy Transition
Ammonia as a marine fuel has gained attention as the maritime industry faces increasing pressure to adopt sustainable and low-carbon energy solutions. The successful bunkering of Yuantuo No. 1 highlights China Shipping & Sinopec Suppliers Co., Ltd.’s commitment to advancing green energy adoption.
The operation validated the integrity and efficiency of the company’s ammonia bunkering equipment and provided invaluable insights into the practical deployment of ammonia fuel in larger vessels. This experience positions China Shipping & Sinopec Suppliers Co., Ltd. as a leader in alternative marine fuel solutions, paving the way for the broader adoption of ammonia-powered vessels in China and beyond.
Ammonia as a Marine Fuel
Ammonia is emerging as a promising alternative fuel for maritime applications. Its combustion emits primarily nitrogen and water, with no greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, making it an environmentally friendly option. With its scalability and potential to significantly reduce the shipping industry’s carbon footprint, ammonia is at the forefront of the global transition to green shipping.
China Shipping & Sinopec Suppliers Co., Ltd.: An Industry Leader
Established in December 2003, China Shipping & Sinopec Suppliers Co., Ltd. is a joint venture between China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (Sinopec) and China COSCO Shipping Group Co., Ltd. The company boasts 30 years of experience in the bunkering sector and is one of China’s largest bunker trading houses.
- Extensive infrastructure, including oil depots, wharves, warehouses, and railway facilities across major port cities in China.
- Marine fuel supply coverage includes coastal ports, the Yangtze River, and the Pearl River Delta.
- Comprehensive product portfolio: low-sulphur fuel oil (380CST, VLSFO, MGO), petrochemical products, and marine materials.
- Recognized for excellence with accolades such as “Grade A Taxpayer” and “Contract-abiding and Trustworthy Enterprise” for 16 consecutive years.
By leveraging its robust resources, strong financial backing, and a team of professional and technical experts, China Shipping & Sinopec Suppliers Co., Ltd. continues to uphold its mission of delivering superior service to the global shipping community.
Commitment to Excellence and Sustainability
Guided by the principle of “customer first, quality service,” China Shipping & Sinopec Suppliers Co., Ltd. is dedicated to establishing itself as a leader in marine fuel supply. The company’s innovative approach and focus on safety and efficiency are evident in its efforts to promote sustainable shipping practices, including the pioneering use of alternative fuels like ammonia.
As the world shifts towards greener energy solutions, China Shipping & Sinopec Suppliers Co., Ltd.’s achievement in ammonia bunkering for Yuantuo No. 1 is a pivotal moment that reinforces its leadership in advancing the maritime industry’s decarbonization journey.
COSCO SHIPPING: A Global Leader in Maritime Services
As of December 31, 2023, COSCO SHIPPING operates a massive fleet of 1,417 vessels with a total capacity of 116 million DWT, securing its position as the largest fleet in the world. Its container fleet, boasting a capacity of 3.05 million TEU, ranks fourth globally, while its dry bulk fleet (436 vessels/46.32 million DWT), oil tanker fleet (229 vessels/28.58 million DWT), and general and specialized cargo fleet (180 vessels/6.2 million DWT) lead the world in size and capacity.
COSCO SHIPPING has established itself as a top international brand, leveraging its comprehensive global service network. The company’s capabilities span the upstream and downstream links of the industry chain, including shipping, terminals, logistics, shipping finance, ship repair, and shipbuilding.
Key Achievements:
- Investment in 57 terminals globally, including 50 container terminals, with an annual handling capacity of 133 million TEU, ranking first worldwide.
- Global sales volume of bunker fuel exceeding 29.99 million tons, the largest in the world.
- Designed annual production capacity of 1.4 million TEU in container manufacturing, ranking second globally.
- Container leasing business scale of 3.80 million TEU, the third-largest worldwide.
- Leadership in offshore engineering manufacturing and vessel agency services.
Source COSCO Shipping | China Shipping & Sinopec Suppliers Co., Ltd.