Giant vessel refueled with biodiesel in Xiamen

The COSCO ASIA vessel completed biodiesel refueling at the Ocean Gate Container Terminal of Xiamen Free Trade Zone, becoming the first ship to be refueled with biodiesel in Fujian province this year. It is also the first vessel to undergo biodiesel refueling since the release of the Xiamen Waters Ship Biodiesel Refueling Operation Safety Guidelines (Trial), hereinafter referred to as the "Guidelines".

Replacing traditional fuel with biodiesel is a powerful cost-saving and efficiency-raising measure for businesses. The B24 biodiesel refueled on theCOSCO ASIAvessel in this instance has an energy level equivalent to traditional marine fuel, and its raw materials are mostly renewable. It has the potential to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 20 percent, earning it the nickname of "green fuel" for marine use.

Within the shipping industry, due to the vague guidelines and regulations at the local level and unclear delegation of responsibilities in various processes, many shipping companies have been hesitant to adopt biodiesel for refueling ships.

To address this challenge, in December 2024, the Xiamen FTZ Administrative Committee worked with relevant authorities to issue the first Guidelines in Fujian, specifying safety standards for refueling, standardizing refueling operation procedures, and providing precise guidance and recommended solutions for shipping companies.