Assessing the impact of sulfur cap on bunkering spot selection in the ARA region

Abstract The introduction of IMO2020, the outbreak COVID-19, and oil price drop in 2020 had a significant impact on operators’ operating profits. Therefore, competitive analysis bunkering spots that suggests optimal location for is interest. This paper uses combination primary secondary research, both from suppliers’ side, to identify key performance factors (KPFs) affecting decision-making process port selection process. Answers were then combined by using fuzzy TOPSIS analytical approach quantify position each Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp (ARA) region. Results suggest availability low sulfur bunkers, bunker quality, price, reliability, punctuality, safety services, as well usage barges are KPFs order importance. Sulfur cap has not changed environment region geographic advantage Rotterdam plays crucial role comparison with other ports, contrast expressed concerns industry.