South Korea’s GS Caltex successfully persuaded the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to amend rules governing the transport of bio-marine fuel, allowing fuels with up to 30 percent bio content to be shipped via conventional bunker vessels.

Previously, marine fuels containing over 25 percent bio components were classified as chemicals that required specialized chemical tankers. The rule change is expected to significantly boost biofuel supply and usage.

GS Caltex, in cooperation with South Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and the Korean Register, proposed the revision during the IMO’s 81st MEPC meeting in 2024. Although initial discussions failed to yield consensus, a task force involving GS Caltex’s policy, biofuel trading, and London branch teams continued lobbying efforts.

The breakthrough came during the 83rd MEPC session, held in April 2025, where the IMO approved the transport of B30 fuel - which contains 30 percent bio content - on standard bunkering vessels.

GS Caltex Senior Manager Lim Chan-su presented data demonstrating that B30 poses lower environmental risks than fossil fuels. “Korean refiners can now export B30 products more easily and expand into the bunkering market using existing infrastructure,” Lim said.

The company said this achievement reflects a broader structural shift in which Korean businesses are playing a leading role in advancing global energy transition and carbon neutrality. The company emphasized that it would continue to drive a sustainable energy market by working closely with government, industry stakeholders, and international networks.

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