Container shipping could face global bunker fuel shortages within months if disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz persist. Supply imbalances are already emerging, particularly in Asia, with tighter availability of low-sulfur fuels. Ships equipped with scrubbers may gain flexibility by using more widely available high-sulfur fuel. Carriers are adjusting fueling strategies, including sourcing fuel from Europe, to manage constraints. Prolonged disruption could lead to reduced capacity, higher costs and less predictable shipping schedules.
