Kanematsu has started supplying FAME-blended marine biofuel in Japan. Image source: Adobe Stock
Japanese general trading company Kanematsu has started supplying fatty acid methyl esters (FAME)-blended biofuel for ocean-going vessels in partnership with its subsidiary, tank operator Kanematsu Yuso, and petroleum company Idemitsu Kosan.
As part of the initiative, the companies would use the onshore tanks and offshore loading equipment at Kanematsu Yuso’s Kokura Oil Tank Terminal in Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, Kanematsu said on 3 December.
Using biofuel blend tanks, Kanematsu said it would provide Kanematu Yuso with FAME to be blended with heavy oil provided by Idemitsu Kosan. Following a quality check, the FAME-blended biofuel would be delivered offshore for the bunkering of ocean-going vessels.
The FAME used in the biofuel complied with EU standards (EN 14214), Kanematsu said.
In addition, Kanematsu’s Tokyo head office had acquired ISCC EU certification in February 2025 to build an internationally-certified supply system, making it possible to provide proof of sustainability to shipping companies, as well as to supply and sell FAME-blended biofuel that met sustainability standards, the company said.
The use of FAME-blended biofuel was expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by approximately 20% compared to conventional marine fuel, according to Kanematsu.
The Kanematsu Group has set a target of reducing CO₂ emissions by 1M tonnes by 31 March 2031.
According to its website, the group is active in the development, manufacture and sale of a wide range of energy sources and materials in the petroleum, basic chemicals, high-performance material and power/renewable energy sectors.
AloJapan.com