Oman’s Asyad Shipping has delivered the first blended crude cargo handled by an entirely domestically-owned supply chain.
The shipowner, part of Asyad Group, said this was a new benchmark in the Middle East country’s maritime and energy history.
Asyad’s 300,000-dwt VLCC Saiq (built 2011) carried the oil on an internal Omani voyage from Mina Al Fahal to Ras Markaz, for processing at OQ8’s Duqm refinery.
The company called this “a promising economic project in Oman”.
Ibrahim Al-Nadhairi, chief executive of Asyad Shipping, said OQ8 is a burgeoning Omani refinery.
“Our success in delivering the first blended crude oil shipment managed entirely by an Omani company underscores our commitment to raising the local supply chain and creating sustainable logistic solutions that support the diversification goals of the nation and solidifies Oman’s position on the global trade map,” he added.
The CEO said the shipment was a testament to Asyad’s “comprehensive service capabilities”.
David Bird, CEO of OQ8, said: “We deeply value Asyad Shipping’s technical expertise and advanced infrastructure.
“This joint effort reflects our shared commitment to advancing Oman’s maritime and energy sectors to unprecedented levels,” he added.
Asyad Shipping controls more than 80 ships, including 17 VLCCs.
There are also VLOCs, suezmaxes, LNG carriers and smaller tankers and bulkers.
Transport capacity totals more than 9m dwt.
There are also two LNG carriers on order in South Korea.
