Hong Kong launches initiative to promote MFM adoption

Hong Kong’s Marine Department (MD) has introduced a new initiative aimed at encouraging bunker operators to equip their bunker vessels with mass flow meters (MFMs) and use them during fuel deliveries.

IMAGE: A view of Hong Kong skyline and Victoria Harbor. Getty Images

MFMs are fitted on bunker barges to provide accurate and transparent measurements of delivered fuel volumes, helping to minimise discrepancies and reduce the likelihood of disputes between suppliers and buyers.

Under the programme, bunker operators supplying conventional marine fuels and biofuels can apply to have their vessels included on the “List of Quality Bunker Vessels” if they install and operate MFM systems. To qualify, vessels must comply with the department’s technical and operational requirements and relevant international standards.

Participation in the scheme, however, remains voluntary.

The initiative "will enhance bunkering accuracy and transparency, further enhancing the quality of Hong Kong's bunkering services,” an MD spokesperson said.

“We will also mandate the use of MFM systems on all methanol bunker vessels this year to ensure that Hong Kong continues to provide high-quality bunkering services in the era of green maritime fuels,” the spokesman added.

The latest move follows an announcement by the Hong Kong government in November last year that it was preparing to make MFMs mandatory for methanol bunkering operations by 2026.

Globally, the adoption of MFMs is gaining momentum as ports seek greater transparency in bunker transactions and fewer disputes over delivered fuel quantities.

Several major bunkering hubs have already adopted mandatory MFM use. Rotterdam and Antwerp-Bruges introduced MFM mandates in January this year, following Ceuta, which implemented a similar requirement in February last year.

Singapore remains a pioneer in this area, having mandated the use of MFMs for bunker deliveries since 2017.

By Tuhin Roy

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