FOBAS – Fuel Quality Report, H2 2025

This report analyzes the fuel quality landscape for the second half of 2025, focusing on marine fuel quality issues, regulatory enforcement, and operational challenges.

The period saw a marked increase in off-specification fuel events and acute quality incidents, with persistent issues including sulphur, water, and viscosity off-specification. Significant regional quality failures occurred in major bunkering hubs such as Singapore and Rotterdam, with issues like high sulphur and catalytic fines. Elevated sediment and water content were noted in ports including Antwerp and Hong Kong. December 2025 recorded the highest monthly total of off-specification cases. These issues pose operational risks and highlight the need for supplier scrutiny, laboratory testing, and proactive onboard fuel management.