1. Hong Kong maintains a highly open and competitive bunkering market, welcoming liners, ship management companies and bunker operators from around the world. In addition to the supply of conventional maritime fuels, Hong Kong now provides a wide range of green maritime fuel bunkering services.

  2. Vessels engaging in green maritime fuel bunkering operations must comply with the maritime safety and environmental protection regulations and standards in Hong Kong, as well as the requirements of the relevant international conventions formulated by the International Maritime Organization.

  3. Key requirements for conducting green maritime fuel bunkering services in Hong Kong:

    1. Apply for the Operating Licence for the bunker supply vessel and ensure crew competence
    2. Conduct the required assessment in accordance with the Code of Practice – Safety and Operational Guidelines for Bunkering of Alternative Fuels
    3. Obtain approval for each pairing of the bunker supply vessel and the bunker receiving vessel prior to bunkering operations
    4. Prior to the commencement of any green maritime fuel bunkering operation, notify the relevant bodies

  4. MD has promulgated a "Code of Practice - Safety and Operational Guidelines for Bunkering of Alternative Fuels" in accordance with Section 8 of the Merchant Shipping (Local Vessels) Ordinance (Cap. 548). The Code of Practice provides standardised safety and operational guidelines on green maritime fuel bunkering operations, with a view to ensuring compliance with the international standards, securing safety, protecting the environment and enhancing the operational efficiency in the waters of Hong Kong.

  5. Safety is of paramount importance. Bunkering operations must strictly adhere to the established risk assessment guidelines, and all vessels and crew members must undergo the necessary safety inspections and training before commencement of the operations. For details, please refer to the "Code of Practice - Safety and Operational Guidelines for Bunkering of Alternative Fuels" on the website of MD (https://www.mardep.gov.hk/filemanager/en/share/pub-services/pdf/lvs_copbun.pdf).