The availability of bunker fuel in key Northwest European bunkering hub of Rotterdam tightened this week as two Very Large Crude Carriers were reported to be loading product in the port.

The two ships have been chartered by established market players and are said to require around two to three days to complete the cargo operation, according to market sources. The operation also creates more barge activity in the port than usual.

Additionally, sources said some suppliers are not prepared to sell into the market, moves which have added further upward pressure on price.

S&P Global Platts on Wednesday assessed 380 CST fuel oil, the key bunker fuel grade, at $241.5/mt, a rise of $12 from Tuesday.