Zhoushan has completed Zhejiang Province’s first simultaneous two-side anchorage operation involving both bonded fuel oil and lubricants, marking another milestone in the port’s integrated maritime services, according to the China (Zhejiang) Pilot Free Trade Zone on Monday (8 June). The Bahamas-flagged bulk carrier FALBALA recently received supplies at Mazhi Anchorage, where the bunker vessel Dong Fang Zhao Yang and the supply vessel Fu Rui 688 operated simultaneously on opposite sides of the ship. The operation delivered 999.2 metric tonnes (mt) of bonded marine fuel oil and 10 mt of lubricating oil in a single coordinated service call. Traditionally, vessels at anchorage have followed a sequential “bunkering first, supply later” process, requiring separate operations that increase turnaround times and operating costs. To improve efficiency, the Zhoushan Maritime Safety Administration (MSA) introduced an innovative two-side simultaneous service model designed to enhance safety, compliance and operational efficiency. Supported by coordinated efforts among maritime and port authorities, Zhoushan’s anchorage bunkering business has grown rapidly. During March and April, international vessels conducted 849 anchorage bunkering calls, up 37.6% year-on-year. In April, bonded marine fuel volume exceeded 800,000 mt for the first time, setting a new monthly record. Zhoushan MSA said they will review the experience gained from the operation, refine safety and operational standards, and gradually extend the model to other anchorages while expanding one-stop bunkering services.   Photo credit: China (Zhejiang) Pilot Free Trade Zone Published: 9 June, 2026