In a significant development for the local maritime sector, global marine fuel trading firm FLEX Commodities has announced the launch of its first physical supply operation through a new joint venture established at the port of Walvis Bay.
The partnership with Namibian company GAC Investment CC will see the supply of Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) and Low Sulphur Marine Gas Oil (LSMGO) at the port starting November 24. According to Rakesh Sharma, Managing Partner of FLEX Commodities, GAC Investment CC will be responsible for managing local port logistics and ensuring all operations adhere to Namibian regulations.
Sharma, who established FLEX Commodities in September 2024 after serving as chief operating officer of Oilmar, highlighted Walvis Bay’s strategic advantages. “Walvis Bay offers a strong combination of growing demand, efficient port infrastructure, and clear regulatory processes, supported by experienced local partners and authorities,” he said in an interview. “This makes it an ideal, strategically located hub to anchor our West Africa physical supply ambitions while delivering reliable service to vessels routing via the Cape.”
The venture will utilise the SIRE-approved barge, Splendour Opal, for fuel deliveries. Sharma confirmed that the barge can carry approximately 14,300 metric tonnes of product. For the initial startup in Walvis Bay, it will be loaded with about 13,000 mt of VLSFO and 1,200 mt of LSMGO to ensure strong product availability from the first day of operation. The company is equipped to supply vessels both at anchorage and offshore, with offshore deliveries requiring a 48-hour notice and a permit from the Directorate of Maritime Affairs.
Looking ahead, FLEX Commodities is considering expanding its Walvis Bay offering to include biofuel blends and other grades in the future. However, Sharma noted that the current focus remains on conventional fuels, which align with immediate demand in West Africa. He added that their barge and operational model are designed to accommodate a wider range of blends once market demand and regulatory frameworks support a sustained supply.
The launch comes as African bunkering locations, including Walvis Bay, have experienced a surge in demand due to ships rerouting around the Cape of Good Hope to avoid Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, bypassing the Suez Canal. While this short-term boost may ease as major shipping lines reportedly plan a return to Suez routes, FLEX Commodities remains confident in the long-term viability of the Walvis Bay hub.
“A full normalisation of Suez routes would certainly rebalance some global bunker flows, and Africa would feel part of that shift,” Sharma conceded. “That said, Walvis Bay and the wider Namibian corridor now have a strong intrinsic demand base and a clear role as a Cape refuelling hub, giving this operation a long-term foundation and room to scale as regional trade grows.”