Fujairah fuel oil stocks edge up in October but bunkers stay scarce

Fuel oil inventories in Fujairah over October's opening week have run about 5% above their September average, according to data reported by Engine. Heavy distillate and residual stocks rose by around 228,000 barrels to 4.72 million barrels, the highest monthly average since July.

Middle distillate stocks moved the other way. They dropped by roughly 131,000 barrels to 2.29 million barrels, a fall of about 5% month on month.

The extra fuel oil is largely passing through. Imports picked up to 152,000 b/d, but outbound flows climbed faster to 409,000 b/d, leaving the port a net exporter. Most of those cargoes went to Singapore, with China and Taiwan taking much of the rest.

What it means for buyers: a regional source told Engine that bunkers in Fujairah are still very hard to get. Every major grade is in short supply as US-Iran tensions keep disrupting Hormuz traffic. Bigger tank stocks on paper do not mean easier stems. Owners calling Fujairah should confirm grades and dates well ahead and keep a backup port in mind.