Singapore's marine fuel supplies are under severe strain as the Middle East conflict drives ships to seek refuge in its waters. The world's largest refuelling port has seen bunker fuel inventories fall to a 10-week low, with high-sulphur fuel oil prices surging 152% since late February. Shell and BP are prioritizing large customers while smaller operators face rationing or steep premiums.

War-related disruptions have altered global energy flows, with strikes on regional ports and Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz creating bottlenecks. The average dwell time for ships at Singapore's port has increased from 3.5 to 5.1 days since the conflict began. Brazil has become Singapore's main bunker fuel supplier, replacing Middle Eastern sources that dominated before the war.

Fuel distributors are rationing supplies as congestion worsens, with spot buyers and smaller tanker operators particularly affected. The crisis reflects broader shipping industry challenges as companies divert bunker fuel to Asia from other regions. While Singapore's onshore fuel inventories reached 24.5 million barrels in late March, they have since fallen to 21.7 million barrels, signaling continued pressure on the crucial maritime hub.