STO Partners with Vitol for New Bunkering Project in Maldives

The State Trading Organization (STO) has announced a new start date for its bunkering services in northern Maldives. Originally set to begin on September 20, the launch has been postponed due to delays in vessel arrivals caused by bad weather.

The first vessel, MT Marine Angel, is already docked at Kulhudhuffushi in Haa Dhaalu Atoll. A second, 3,200-tonne bunkering tanker is expected to arrive in the Maldives this Friday. The international bunkering services were initially planned to debut in Ihavandhippolhu, the northernmost atoll.

STO has partnered with Vitol, the world’s largest private energy company, for this new project. The government has previously noted that over 300 ships pass through Ihavandhippolhu daily, highlighting the importance of the new service.

The adjusted launch date aims to ensure all preparations are completed for a successful start.