Middle East unrest and Strait of Hormuz disruptions push HVO prices to levels prompting emergency port action
Sweden’s Port of Helsingborg is set to begin charging an emergency energy surcharge on all quay-handled cargo from April 1, 2026, according to Ship & Bunker. The move comes in direct response to a sharp rise in the cost of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) biofuel, which the port relies on for its day-to-day operations.
What’s Behind the Surcharge?
As reported by Ship & Bunker, the port cited ongoing unrest in the Middle East and significant disruptions to shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz as the primary drivers of the energy price increases. In a press release issued on March 16, the port described a “dramatic surge” in HVO prices in recent weeks, underlining the urgency behind the emergency measure.
The surcharge will cover all cargo units moving across the quay — both loaded and discharged — and will be recalculated on a monthly basis to reflect current HVO pricing.
How Will It Be Calculated?
According to Ship & Bunker, the surcharge mechanism is tied to an average energy consumption figure of 5.31 litres of HVO per cargo unit handled, with pricing benchmarked against Neste MY Renewable Diesel. This structured approach allows the surcharge to rise or fall in line with actual fuel costs rather than remaining fixed.
The port noted that its operations are inherently energy-intensive, making it particularly vulnerable to fuel price volatility.
Duration
No fixed end date has been set for the surcharge. Ship & Bunker reports that the measure will remain active for as long as energy costs continue to stay at elevated levels.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
