Hambantota International Port (HIP) achieved a major milestone in January 2025 by successfully integrating High Sulphur Fuel Oil (HSFO) into its bunkering services, now offering a complete range of marine fuels including VLSFO and MGO.
This development strengthens Sri Lanka’s position in global maritime trade, allowing HIP to serve a wider variety of vessels navigating one of the busiest shipping routes.
“The launch of our HSFO bunkering facility is a significant step toward becoming a leading global maritime hub,” said Wilson Qu, CEO of HIPG, highlighting the port’s growing reputation for operational excellence.
The new HSFO facility includes a 6,000 cubic meter storage capacity across two tanks, with a pumping system capable of transferring 400 metric tons per hour, ensuring fast and efficient fuel delivery.
Advanced monitoring and remote-control systems ensure safe and precise operations, benefiting ship owners who prefer HSFO for its cost-effectiveness and compliance with IMO 2020 sulfur cap regulations.
HIP celebrated the successful discharge of 5,000 metric tons of HSFO and 20,000 metric tons of VLSFO from the vessel Grand Ace 10, unveiling its new HSFO bunkering infrastructure.
Strategically located on a key maritime route between Europe and Asia, HIP now serves as a vital refueling stop for diverse vessels, from large tankers to smaller cargo ships.
HIP’s collaboration with Sinopec, a global energy leader, ensures high-quality fuel supply, while its certification by Lloyd’s Register (LR) validates its infrastructure and operational safety.
In response to the evolving maritime industry, HIP remains committed to innovation, infrastructure development, and service quality, contributing to Sri Lanka’s economic growth and global maritime competitiveness.
