India Joins Maritime Fuel Supply Talks

India is participating in the “Maritime Fuel Supply Dialogues,” a collaborative effort to promote the development of clean fuel supplies and decarbonisation of the marine sector in the Asia-Pacific and African regions. Led by the LR Maritime Decarbonisation Hub, the initiative aims to drive the establishment of regional fuel supplies at scale in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. The recent roundtable discussion organised by the UN Global Compact’s Ocean Stewardship Coalition introduced the idea to transport and energy ministries in Asia Pacific and Africa.

The “Dialogues” seek to create synergies among stakeholders to deliver wider economic and environmental benefits, propelling the maritime industry towards a sustainable future. Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary General of the International Maritime Organisation, highlighted the opportunities for countries to develop hydrogen-based maritime fuel production infrastructure. Participating ministries from India, Kenya, Namibia, Oman, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, and Singapore discussed the potential for regional cooperation in developing clean fuel supply chains and leveraging hydrogen production prospects.

The ministries at the inaugural meeting of the “Maritime Fuel Supply Dialogues” emphasised the growing need for clean fuels and the opportunity to create mutually advantageous supply chains across borders. They aimed to ensure that the demand for hydrogen-based fuels, especially with the expansion of green corridors and clusters in the region, aligns with global regulatory and industry signals. The upcoming gathering in September will expand engagement along the marine value chain to include other ministries, energy and fuel producers, financial institutions, and important stakeholders.