Bunker Fuel Failures Hit 29 in 2026—Why Ships Are Burning Risky Fuel

Veritas Petroleum Services (VPS) has issued 29 bunker alerts in the first seven months of the year, nearly matching the 37 recorded throughout all of 2025. The trend signals a sharp rise in fuel-related risks for ship owners and operators, with abrasive contaminants and stability issues accounting for 72% of the warnings. The conflict has disrupted traditional supply chains, exacerbating both price volatility and the prevalence of off-specification fuels. For vessel operators, the message is stark: today’s fuel market is not only more expensive but also increasingly unpredictable, with higher…

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