Platts to include chemicals limits in European 1% fuel oil assessments from July 1

Following a review of the specifications reflected in its Northwest European and Mediterranean 1% fuel oil barge and cargo assessments, Platts, part of S&P Global Commodity Insights, will include a 500ppm maximum limit on six chemicals in its European 1% fuel oil barge and cargo assessments, effective July 1, 2025.

Platts understands that as a result of changing end-user requirements and supply dynamics in the 1% fuel oil market, it has become typical to request chemical limits on different species of chemicals in both Northwest Europe and the Mediterranean.

Platts will include a 500ppm limit on each of the following chemicals:

These limits will apply to the following assessments:

• FO 1%S CIF Med Cargo PUAAJ00
• FO 1%S FOB Med Cargo PUAAK00
• FO 1%S CIF NWE Cargo PUAAL00
• FO 1%S FOB NWE Cargo PUAAM00
• FO 1%S FOB Rdam Barge PUAAP00

Platts understands that requests for limits on styrene, indene, phenols and DCPD have become typical, and that in addition, limits on 4-cumylphenol and methyl-styrene are also often requested. Platts understands that testing is carried out via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry meeting ASTM D 7845-17.

In addition to the above, Platts understands that elevated levels of other chemicals not listed above may also render product unfit for end use.

Platts reiterates that cargoes sold in the Market On Close assessment process should be suitable for end use.

Offers and traded bids of cargoes and barges in the Platts MOC in Europe should meet the above chemical limit and are also expected to meet merchantable standards.

Platts will continue to consider for publication bids and offers for material with limits on chemicals that may differ from those stated above. If published, these may be subject to normalization.

This decision follows a formal consultation, the details of which are available here, and a proposal published on May 5, 2025, available here.

During the consultation on European 1% Fuel Oil specifications, Platts also sought feedback on its methodology regarding CN Codes. As a result of this review, Platts will maintain its existing methodology surrounding CN Codes.

Platts European and Mediterranean assessments reflect LSFO where the material has been assigned CN code 2707 9999.

Platts is still seeking further feedback on chemicals in the marine fuel markets globally.

Please send any feedback, questions or comments to europe_products@spglobal.com and pricegroup@spglobal.com.

For written comments, please provide a clear indication if comments are not intended for publication by Platts for public viewing. Platts will consider all comments received and will make comments not marked as confidential available upon request.