IE Week observations: evolving maritime industry and regulatory landscape

Earlier this year, ExxonMobil attended the prestigious International Energy (IE) Week, an event that brings together senior global figures from the energy industry, politics and investor community. The week was full of insightful discussions and provoked further thoughts on how ExxonMobil can support our customers. During these conversations, several key observations were highlighted that continue to be of interest to the market.

FuelEU Maritime regulation

The FuelEU Maritime regulation¹, which came into effect this year, is generating considerable interest in lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emission fuels, particularly bio marine fuel blends. This regulation aims to increase the use of lower GHG intensity fuels in maritime transport and is one component of the EU's broader GHG emissions reduction goals. 

As ship owners and operators seek to comply with these new requirements, bio marine fuel blends are emerging as a viable option to help reduce GHG emissions and meet regulatory standards. ExxonMobil has delivered bio marine fuel blends in the ports of Rotterdam and Antwerp-Bruges (ARA), the UK and Singapore.

Mandatory Mass Flow Meters (MFM) in Rotterdam and Antwerp-Bruges

Starting in January 2026, the ARA ports will mandate the use of mass flow meters (MFM) for bunker deliveries. This requirement is expected to enhance transparency and accuracy in fuel deliveries, providing ship owners with greater confidence in the quantity and quality of fuel received. 

The implementation of MFM systems addresses long-standing concerns about fuel measurement discrepancies and supports a more reliable bunker market.

ExxonMobil has been a pioneer in implementing MFM in ARA and has been a notable voice calling for MFM mandates in ARA ports.

Mediterranean Emission Control Area (ECA)

The Mediterranean Emission Control Area (ECA), which came into effect in May 2025, imposes strict sulphur oxide (SOx) emission limits on ships operating in the region. This regulation mandates the use of fuels with a sulphur content not exceeding 0.10%, unless an exhaust gas cleaning system is in place. 

The new ECA is expected to increase demand for compliant ultra low-sulphur fuels and raises questions about the availability of these products in Mediterranean ports. ExxonMobil supplies ECA compliant fuels in the ARA region. Our branded 0.10% sulphur fuel, ExxonMobil Premium HDME 50™, offers a range of operational benefits beyond ECA compliance.

EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) and demand for lower GHG emission fuels

The European Union's Emissions Trading System (ETS) will require shipping companies to surrender allowances for 70% of applicable CO² emissions reported for the year 2024, up from 40% from the year before.² The deadline for surrendering allowances is in September, which may drive up sales of lower GHG emission fuels towards the end of the year as companies seek to reduce their CO² emissions. ExxonMobil's expertise in lower GHG emission fuels can help vessel operators navigate this change and optimise their fuel strategies.

ExxonMobil's capabilities

ExxonMobil is dedicated to supporting the maritime industry successfully adapt to these evolving regulatory changes and market trends. Our expertise in lower GHG emission fuels positions us as a reliable supplier for ship owners and operators. We are dedicated to providing solutions and expertise to help our customers meet regulatory obligations and achieve their GHG emission reduction goals.

Sponsoring the IBIA dinner 

This year, ExxonMobil was a silver sponsor of the International Bunkering Industry Association (IBIA) dinner, another high-profile event that brings together representatives from across our industry. We’d like to thank our colleagues and customers who attended the IBIA dinner and IE Week. It was a pleasure to engage with you; we look forward to reconnecting with you soon.