Omanoil Matrix Marine Services (MXO), a leading supplier of marine fuel, has planned the expansion of its physical infrastructure in Oman with the deployment of a new bunker barge at Sohar Port and Freezone, a report said.

The new barge, Stephanie, with 7,535 deadweight tonnage (DWT) is providing both heavy fuel oil — IFO 380 RMG 2010 — and marine gas oil to customers at all locations within the Port of Sohar and anchorage areas, added the Oman Daily Observer report.

MXO has two dedicated bunker barges within the port providing exclusive supply, following the earlier deployment of Azalea in August 2014.

The development is in line with the company’s strategy to expand its physical operations on a global basis, building closer relationships with its customers, and ensuring the highest quality of its bunkering services and products, said the report.

Stephen Robinson, managing director of MXO, said that developing the physical infrastructure helps MXO have more control over the end-to-end bunkering supply chain from order through to final delivery.

“This enables us to ensure the quality and quantity of products, the reliability of supply, as well as minimising costs and maximising operational efficiencies within the bunkering process. Despite the drop in global oil prices, marine fuel remains a significant proportion of a vessel’s operating costs,” he said.

Robinson noted that the company is working closely with its customers to provide the optimum bunker solution, creating real value for them when it comes to marine fuel procurement.

Murthed al Kharusi, commercial director, MXO, said that the new barge will extend and increase the efficiency of movements in the port during peak hours.