Japanese shipping major Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has secured two new bio-LNG bunker supply agreements in Europe, partnering with Titan for Northwest Europe and Axpo for the Mediterranean, according to Ship & Bunker.
The deals are designed to ensure a consistent supply of bio-LNG across key European regions, supporting MOL’s LNG-fuelled car carrier fleet as the company works toward its net-zero greenhouse gas emissions target.
Expanding Coverage Across Two Key Regions
Under the arrangement, Titan will continue its supply role in Northwest Europe — an extension of an existing relationship that enabled MOL’s first bio-LNG bunkering operations on the continent last year. Axpo, meanwhile, will cover the Mediterranean region, with supply confirmed at the Spanish ports of Malaga and Barcelona, as reported by Ship & Bunker.
The structure of the dual-agreement approach reflects MOL’s intent to build geographic redundancy into its alternative fuel supply chain across European waters.
What Is Bio-LNG?
Bio-LNG is derived from organic waste streams such as food waste and livestock manure. Because it shares the same physical properties as conventional LNG, it can be used as a direct drop-in fuel for LNG-powered vessels without modification.
MOL highlighted the carbon credentials of the fuel in its press release, stating that the bio-LNG covered by these agreements carries a lifecycle carbon intensity of -15 g-CO2/MJ or less, measured from production through consumption. That negative figure indicates the fuel removes more carbon from the cycle than it emits during use.
Does This Matter to You?
The expansion of bio-LNG availability at European ports, including Malaga and Barcelona in the Mediterranean, reflects a broader trend of alternative marine fuel infrastructure taking shape across the region. For those involved in vessel scheduling, fuel procurement, or emissions compliance planning in European waters, the addition of a Mediterranean supply point is a notable development.
The agreements also signal growing commercial momentum behind bio-LNG as a compliance-oriented fuel, particularly as the industry navigates tightening carbon intensity requirements. The confirmed negative lifecycle carbon intensity figure is relevant for operators and charterers assessing FuelEU Maritime compliance pathways.
Ship & Bunker notes that MOL’s ambition extends beyond individual supply deals — the company has framed these agreements as part of a wider strategy to advance the use of lower-carbon fuels fleet-wide.
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
