Executive Summary
The maritime fuel landscape continues to evolve rapidly as the industry balances regulatory compliance, operational reliability, and decarbonization objectives. The Global Fuel Characteristics Review 2025 provides an in-depth analysis of fuel quality trends based on extensive testing conducted across major bunkering regions worldwide.
This year’s findings highlight the growing adoption of biofuel blends following the introduction of ISO 8217:2024 requirements, while also revealing emerging challenges associated with fuel stability, sediment formation, acid number variations, and operational performance. The report examines the characteristics of VLSFOs, HSFOs, distillate fuels, and biofuels, identifies the most common off-specification parameters, and presents regional variations in fuel quality.
Particular attention is given to operational issues reported by vessels, including purifier sludging, filter choking, fuel pump damage, and contamination-related incidents. Real-world case studies from key bunkering hubs provide valuable insights into the relationship between fuel properties and machinery performance, helping operators better understand and manage fuel-related risks.
Whether you are involved in technical management, fuel procurement, marine operations, or fleet performance, this report offers practical data, industry observations, and expert analysis to support informed decision-making in an increasingly complex fuel environment.
Download the full report to explore regional fuel quality trends, operational case studies, biofuel developments, and the key findings shaping marine fuel management in 2025.