Message from Kenneth Dam on the Middle East Bunkering Convention in Dubai

It was a privilege to participate in the Leadership Panel at last week’s Middle East Bunkering Convention in Dubai. My thanks to the ship.energy team for convening an important discussion at a pivotal time for our industry, and to my fellow panellists Claudia Beumer, Chris T., Rahul Choudhuri and Ludovic Laffineur for such an open and forward looking exchange.

Our session focused on the future of leadership in bunkering and the evolving role of bunker trading in an increasingly digital environment.

Today, +50% of all bunker stems are managed through intermediaries. The central question we addressed was whether this structure remains fit for purpose as AI, data transparency and digital platforms reshape commercial models across our industry.

Several themes emerged during our discussion.

• How technology is fundamentally redefining traditional value chains and trading relationships
• Striking the right balance between digital efficiency and the commercial expertise that intermediaries bring
• Leadership in this sector requires strategic clarity, operational transparency and the ability to adapt at pace as the sector digitises

The consensus was clear; Technology will materially reshape how we operate, but it will not replace the human element. Expertise, trusted relationships and strategic judgement will remain critical in navigating market complexity and volatility. Consolidation is already underway. Scaled, value driven B2B platforms with strong governance, transparency and digital capability will continue to gain momentum while others that do not embrace this new operating environment will find it increasingly difficult to compete.

The Middle East bunkering landscape is also entering a period of structural change. As global standards evolve, regional markets will have to follow. At TFG Marine, we are working to take an active leadership role in this transition, ensuring that physical bunkering services in the Middle East will align with international best practice and are positioned for long term resilience.