SOCAR Petroleum launches ship-to-ship fuel bunkering in Caspian Sea

BAKU. April 21 (Interfax) - JSC SOCAR Petroleum has launched ship-to-ship fuel bunkering operations in the Caspian Sea, the company, which is a subsidiary of State Oil Company of the Azerbaijani Republic (SOCAR), said in a statement.

The first bunkering operation was successfully carried out in line with international standards, marking a new stage in its development and strengthening Azerbaijan's position in maritime logistics and fuel supply.

"This approach allows vessels to be refueled promptly without entering ports, making services much more effective. In the next stage, SOCAR Petroleum plans to expand bunkering operations, introduce high-quality marine fuels compliant with ISO 8217 standards, including DMA, IFO, VLSFO, and MGO, and further develop supply infrastructure," the company said.

These operations will contribute to the development of maritime infrastructure in the Caspian region, strengthen Azerbaijan's role in international transport and energy corridors, and create additional opportunities to enhance the country's transit potential, it said.

Bunkering involves supplying ships with fuel and lubricants for their operation and onboard systems. Depending on the technical method, it is carried out either ship-to-ship or from shore to ship.

SOCAR Petroleum was founded in 2008 to purchase and sell petroleum and gas products and provide supply services within Azerbaijan under the SOCAR brand.

SOCAR Petroleum currently operates 73 filling stations. The company also operates a compressed natural gas terminal and 13 oil terminal bases, 11 of which operate in the regions and two in Baku. Several more gas stations are due to open this year.