A new bonded LNG bunkering model, termed "one vessel supplying multiple ships," has been successfully implemented in Ningbo Port, Zhejiang Province. On February 13th, the bunkering vessel "Ha Yang Shi You 302" completed bunkering operations for the container ship "MSC Stella" at Chuanshan Port Area. This operation followed a previous bunkering for the vessel "Brussels Express" at Meishan Port Area during the same voyage, marking the first time a single bunkering vessel has supplied multiple ships across different port areas in one trip.
This innovative model, introduced by Ningbo Customs, is a significant step in enhancing the efficiency of bonded LNG fuel supply. Unlike traditional methods where a bunkering vessel could only supply one ship per trip before returning to port, the new model allows the vessel to carry a full load of bonded LNG and continuously supply multiple LNG-powered ships across different port zones. This greatly improves operational efficiency per voyage and strengthens the competitiveness of Ningbo Port in the international ship fuel supply market.
Hou Jie, Fuel Supply Department Manager at Zhejiang Seaport International Trade Co., Ltd., highlighted the benefits, noting that the previous requirement for vessels to return to port after each operation created delays. Ningbo Customs proactively addressed this challenge by developing and trialing the new supervision model, providing strong support for the development of the bunkering business.
It is reported that the bonded LNG bunkering volume at Ningbo Port had already exceeded 250,000 cubic meters by 2025. With the new model in place, the volume is expected to surpass 300,000 cubic meters in 2026. As a key initiative for the green port development of Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, Ningbo Customs has been actively promoting the use of green marine energy since facilitating the first bonded LNG bunkering for an international vessel in June 2023.
Liu Shuang, Chief of the Second Inspection Section at Ningbo Customs' Beilun Customs Yucheng Office, explained that the customs authority collaborated with enterprises like Zhejiang Provincial Seaport Group and CNOOC to conduct specialized research. They addressed challenges such as limited wharf and channel resources and insufficient operational windows. Building on the innovative "supply before declaration" supervision model, they have continuously optimized the entire process, including bonded warehouse withdrawal, ship supply, customs declaration, and verification. This optimized process has been recognized as an institutional innovation achievement for the大宗商品资源配置枢纽 (large commodity resource allocation hub) in the Zhejiang Pilot Free Trade Zone.
Data shows that from June 2023 to February 13, 2026, Ningbo Customs has supervised and facilitated bonded LNG bunkering for 65 vessel operations, with a total volume of 341,000 cubic meters, contributing to an estimated reduction of 68,000 tons in carbon emissions.