NYK Line-led trio makes ammonia bunkering push in Singapore

Japan’s NYK Line, bunkering licensee Golden Island, and fuel producer Yara Clean Ammonia have initiated a partnership to explore the marketing and supply of low-carbon ammonia as a marine fuel in Singapore, the world’s largest bunkering hub.

The collaboration is seen as a major step in establishing ammonia as a zero-or-near-zero-emission (ZNZ) marine fuel, aligning with Singapore’s broader ambitions to help the shipping community meet decarbonisation targets.

Specifically, NYK Line will provide its LNG bunkering experience as well as its operational and technical expertise in ammonia carriers and ammonia-fuelled vessel projects. Golden Island brings more than 40 years of experience in Singapore’s bunkering sector, alongside a strong customer base and established scheduling capabilities. Yara Clean Ammonia contributes extensive expertise in production and handling.

NYK Bulkship (Asia) managing director Atsuya Nojiri noted that ammonia (NH3) - an excellent hydrogen carrier that contains no carbon - is expected to play a major role in lowering CO2 and greenhouse gas emissions from shipping. “The NYK Group operates a fleet of more than 900 vessels and recognises the transition to ZNZ marine fuels as a critical step towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050,” he said.

“Over the years, we have supported the industry’s transition through initiatives such as the adoption of VLSFO, biofuels, methanol as marine fuel, and digitalisation efforts, including electric Bunker Delivery Note. Through this partnership, we look forward to contributing our operational capabilities and high safety standards to support Singapore’s development as a global hub for next-generation marine fuels,” commented Golden Island managing director Johnny Tan.

Yara Clean Ammonia senior vice president Murali Srinivasan said the partnership will enable the development of the “last-mile ecosystem” of ammonia bunkering. “This partnership marks an important milestone in realising our vision of a low-carbon ammonia supply chain for new markets,” he said.

The three partners began discussions at the beginning of 2024 to explore the launch of the business, aiming to commence operations within this decade.

Last year, NYK and Yara also signed what they described as the world’s first time charter contract for an ammonia-fuelled medium gas carrier. Due for delivery in November 2026, the 40,000 m³ ammonia-fuelled gas carrier measures 180 m in length and 32 m in beam. Medium-sized gas carriers are considered the most popular vessel type for the international maritime transportation of ammonia.

NYK Line has joined with other Japanese maritime stakeholders in supporting the advancement of ammonia supply chain development. NYK, Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha and Sumitomo Corp have secured Japanese government funding to pilot ammonia fuel for ships in Singapore.

In their first joint trial in the region, the trio will test a ship-to-ship (STS) refuelling method using a bunkering vessel that meets local government standards. By refining these operations now, the companies aim to establish the safety protocols and procedures needed to eventually launch a full-scale commercial refuelling service.