Keeping agile: Future proofing the marine fuel supply chain

We are living in a time of flux, and the global shipping and bunker industries are having to respond to geopolitical challenges, market volatility, tightening environmental regulation, technological innovation, and a widening marine fuel pool – all whilst trying to maintain a competitive edge.

At ARACON 2025, the discussions will be focused on the importance of making the right choices so that the bunker sector can adapt efficiently and effectively to new and upcoming commercial, operational and regulatory imperatives and mandates. By being fully informed about market dynamics and pressures, marine fuel companies can prepare themselves for business headwinds, as well as future opportunities.

Speakers in Rotterdam will look at the key factors driving the industry globally – and, of course, within the ARA region. Each element of the marine fuel supply chain will be examined closely to see how it is adapting to change – whether it be the demands of the energy transition, the requirement for more transparency in business practices, and the need for greater financial liquidity and stronger risk management in an industry where costs are set to rise exponentially.

In 2025, ARACON will do what it does best – bringing topflight speakers together in front of a large audience of highly engaged delegates who, without doubt, will ask some difficult questions.

The conference programme will cover fuel quality, including a look at biofuels and the issue of provenance and certification, as well as fuel availability and pricing. Supply trends within the ARA region will also be explored and analysed.

As alternative – and expensive – marine fuels increasingly enter the mix, the issues of credit lines and credit risk will also be addressed, and speakers will also consider whether higher fuel price exposure will lead to consolidation among smaller and mid-sized bunker players.

Regulation will be a major talking point in Rotterdam. How is shipping adapting to a new and more complicated regulatory environment in Europe, and how is the bunker industry stepping up the mark in terms of supporting compliance?

ARACON will also be one of the first major conferences to assess the outcomes of the extraordinary session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee in mid-October. The IMO’s proposed Net Zero Framework is complicated and ARACON speakers will offer their verdict on the final ‘shape’ of a global GHG regulation for shipping after the all-important vote at IMO HQ.

The timing of ARACON 2025 is also fortuitous as it comes ahead of the implementation the mass flow meter mandate at the ports of Rotterdam and Antwerp at the start of 2026. Discussions will inevitably focus on market readiness for this ‘milestone’ event in the ARA region, as well as issues such as the adoption of eBDNs and the wider use of digitalisation to streamline processes across the fuel supply chain.

The 2025 edition of ARACON will, as usual, come to a close with its always enjoyable and informative Industry Leaders Session, where a no holds barred discussion on the future proofing of the industry will be guaranteed.

SPONSORSHIP OPTIONS | PROGRAMME

EXHIBITION

ARACON exhibition offers you all the benefits of a networking environment in which you can consolidate existing, and develop new, business relationships. Use this opportunity to acquire new leads and build your brand by booking a table top exhibition space.

 Exhibition Options

SPEAKING OPPORTUNITIES

If you are interested in contributing to the programme, we would welcome your suggestions and comments, please email Lesley Bankes-Hughes at lesley@ship.energy or call +44 1295 814455.