Norsul enters ship-to-ship bunkering market

Norsul has taken another significant step in its strategy for diversification and growth. Responding to increasing market demand, the company has announced a new ship-to-ship (STS) bunkering operation, which involves refueling large vessels. This service will be carried out at the anchorage area of São Marcos Bay in Maranhão, using a vessel of approximately 16,000 DWT.

In line with its business diversification strategy, this new service aligns with the evolving Brazilian maritime market. “In this context, we see a great opportunity to offer our maritime transport services beyond coastal shipping. Starting this month, we are expanding our operations to include port support through STS bunkering services,” explains Christian Lachmann, Norsul’s Director of Chartering and Operations. Lachmann highlights that this moment reflects the company’s broader strategy as it celebrates 60 years by venturing into new sectors and partnerships, reinforcing its leadership in the maritime industry.

“We are in a new phase of company expansion and business diversification. In 2023, we began container cabotage with Norcoast, and now we are announcing to the market that we are also conducting port operations with ship-to-ship bunkering, further expanding our core business,” he notes. Lachmann also points out that since 2014, Norsul has transported a wide range of liquid bulk, including IMO 1 and IMO 2 classified cargoes. In 2016, the company began transporting hydrocarbons, chemicals, agricultural oils, and biofuels. In 2023, Norsul transported 2.9 million tonnes of liquid cargo. “Our expertise in liquid transport was crucial for this new operation, which is more operationally complex. The company’s stability and credibility have enabled us to enter this new niche,” Lachmann adds.

Bunker fuel plays a critical role in the smooth functioning of both national and international trade, as it is the primary fuel source for vessels. According to data from Allied Market Research, the global bunker market was valued at $109.6 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow by 4.3% annually, reaching $164.9 billion by 2030.

Norsul’s operation will occur in the Itaqui Port area in São Marcos Bay. According to Fabiana Durant, the company’s Executive Nautical Manager, “In addition to being situated at one of the country’s major ports, this region has one of the largest tidal ranges in Brazil, exceeding seven meters at times, leading to strong maritime currents. The operation requires expertise in managing intense environmental variations, but we have a robust technical team ready for this type of work.”

Due to its strategic location, São Marcos Bay is a key national and international trade hub.

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