The "Xinmingzhou 106" vessel. [Photo/wifizs.cn]

Zhejiang Seaport International Trade Co began refueling the "Xinmingzhou 106" vessel with bonded fuel oil at the anchorage of Jebel Ali Port in Dubai, UAE, on July 16.

This marks a historic milestone for the "Harbor Fuel Supply" brand, expanding its operations from Zhoushan to international waters.

About 450 metric tons of bonded fuel oil were supplied in about five hours. Bonded fuel oil offers advantages such as exemption from customs duties, providing efficient and stable supply crucial for reducing operational costs and enhancing the sailing efficiency of international vessels, according to a company spokesperson.

Zhejiang Seaport International Trade, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Zhejiang Seaport Group and Ningbo Zhoushan Port Group, was established in September 2013. The company specializes in bonded fuel supply for ships, new energy development, and bulk commodity trading.

Since obtaining a bonded oil supply license in Zhoushan in 2017, the company has supplied over 2 million tons of bonded fuel oil. It is the only enterprise with a local license in Zhejiang Free Trade Zone that covers bonded fuel supply across the Yangtze River Delta region, including Shanghai, Ningbo, and Zhoushan. In 2022, the company supplied 462,300 tons of bonded oil and was recognized as an "Excellent Supplier" by Zhoushan High-tech Zone.

Zhoushan has become the top refueling port in China and the fourth globally, thanks to the support of major fueling enterprises. In 2023, the total bonded fuel supply by Zhoushan-licensed companies reached 3.21 million tons, a 25.58-percent increase year-on-year.