MPA tightens biofuel regulations in Singapore

The new mandate requires all bunker suppliers in Singapore to issue a proof of sustainability (POS) for biofuel supplied, to validate the biofuel sustainable credentials.

PHOTO: Cargo terminal at the Port of Singapore. Getty Images

All licensed bunker suppliers in Singapore will be required to issue a POS document from a recognised certification scheme along with a bunker delivery note (BDN) when supplying biofuel blends to vessels in the Port of Singapore, the Maritime Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) said in its latest circular.

The POS serves as a validation of the biofuel's sustainable credentials, providing assurance that it meets the necessary sustainability criteria.

The suppliers will be required to submit copies of the POS or similar documents to the MPA Standards and Investigation – Marine Fuel (SIMF) Department, the port authority said.

The MPA will then conduct random inspection checks on bunker suppliers.

The POS or similar documents must be from a recognised certification scheme, the MPA said. The circular states the International Civil Aviation Organisation's (ICAO) list of approved sustainable certification schemes, which includes International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC).

ISCC is recognised under the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) by ICAO.

In October 2022, the port authority mandated mass flow meters to be used for biofuel deliveries, aligning with other marine fuel grades. Additionally, the MPA instructed that no biofuel blending should be carried out onboard bunker tankers within Singapore.

MPA has encouraged bunker suppliers to supply ISCC-certified biofuel blends in the port.

By Aparupa Mazumder 

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