European refiners lag on IMO 2020
The continent’s crude processors are playing catch-up following the introduction of IMO 2020 regulations on sulphur content in marine fuel
European refiners are, in many cases, reacting retroactively to the introduction of stricter sulphur limits on marine transport fuels. the changes are being made. A study by US firm AspenTech—a software provider for process industries—earlier this year found that European refiners were the least prepared globally for the advent of IMO 2020. Under new International Maritime Organisation (IMO) 2020 regulations introduced at the start of the year, the limit for sulphur content in marine fuel has been reduced to 0.5pc. While bunker fuel typically accounts for a small proportion of refiners’ output, this nonetheless requires them to make changes. And these changes must now be made while facing th
Also in this section
4 December 2025
Time is running out for Lukoil and Rosneft to divest international assets that will be mostly rendered useless to them when the US sanctions deadline arrives in mid-December
3 December 2025
Aramco’s pursuit of $30b in US gas partnerships marks a strategic pivot. The US gains capital and certainty; Saudi Arabia gains access, flexibility and a new export future
2 December 2025
The interplay between OPEC+, China and the US will define oil markets throughout 2026
1 December 2025
The North African producer’s first bidding round in almost two decades is an important milestone but the recent extension suggests a degree of trepidation
