HPCL Struggles To Book Tankers For Hormuz Crude

Vessel shortages and last-minute withdrawals by shipowners complicate crude shipments from the Persian Gulf despite recovering regional supplies

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL) is facing difficulties securing tankers to transport crude from inside the Persian Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz, as vessel shortages and last-minute withdrawals by shipowners complicate shipment arrangements, according to media reports.

The challenge persists even as crude supplies from the Middle East recover and more vessels resume crossings through the strategic waterway.

HPCL Chairman Vikas Kaushal said in an interview in Abu Dhabi this week that finding ships for available loading dates remains difficult, with some shipowners withdrawing even after agreeing to transport cargoes. While the refiner has managed to secure crude supplies from the region, arranging vessels to lift cargoes from within the Persian Gulf has become a significant operational challenge.

This story was originally published by Hellenic Shipping News. Read the full story at Hellenic Shipping News →