Belgium Hit Pause and Maritime Exemptions Remain in Germany

While the overall regulatory ambition is clear - accelerate decarbonization, the rollout varies significantly between countries. For shipowners and operators, this patchwork will directly influence bunker strategy, voyage planning, and cost management in 2026. Amid these moving parts, Bunker One is exceptionally well positioned to provide stable, compliant, and cost-effective supply across Northern Europe.

The Netherlands Moves First - With Cost Implications for Shipping

As of 1 January 2026, the Netherlands is set to become the only EU country to apply marine GHG obligations under its RED III transposition. The introduction of a new Energy Renewable Europe (ERE) system, replacing the current HBE mechanism, will impose mandatory compliance costs on suppliers.

What this means for the market;

• Bunker prices in Dutch ports are expected to rise by USD 25-45/mt.
• The maritime obligation is lowered slightly (from 3.6% to 2.9%), but the financial impact remains material.
• Annex IX-B feedstocks stay non-eligible for marine fuels.
• No mass-balanced bio-LNG will be permitted for compliance.

For operators trading heavily in ARA, this introduces structural price pressure and forces a reassessment of sourcing strategies.

Belgium and Germany Hit Pause and Maritime Exemptions Remain

In contrast, Belgium has delayed RED III implementation to 2027, keeping maritime exempt throughout 2026. Meanwhile, Germany has passed RED III but confirmed that the maritime sector remains fully exempt, meaning no compliance cost impact on bunker fuels.

The direct outcome:

• Germany, Denmark, Sweden, and Skaw roads remain stable, mandate-free bunkering zones.
• No sudden quota shifts.
• No distortions caused by renewable compliance premiums.
• Predictable pricing and reliable supply chains.

This geographical divergence sets the stage for significant cost differentials across North European ports.

A New Gravity Point for Competitive Bunkering

With Dutch ports becoming more expensive while surrounding regions stay exempt, the market is already anticipating a bunker demand shift toward northern supply hubs. Germany, Denmark, and Sweden stand out as the “safe harbour” — both commercially and operationally — for marine fuel procurement in 2026.

These markets offer:

• Regulatory stability
• Competitive pricing
• Reliable physical supply
• Strong infrastructure and experienced suppliers

Bunker One: Positioned to Deliver Certainty in an Uncertain Year

With RED III reshaping cost structures and port competitiveness, shipowners need partners who can guarantee compliance, transparency, and dependable delivery across multiple markets.

Bunker One is strategically aligned with the emerging 2026 landscape:

• Strong physical footprint in Germany, Denmark, and Sweden — the regions set to remain stable and cost-efficient.
• Deep regulatory insight to guide customers through RED III implications and fuel strategy adjustments.
• Operational flexibility enabling optimized procurement even as market conditions shift.
• Commitment to future-ready solutions, ensuring customers meet tightening sustainability requirements without compromising efficiency or cost control.

Bottom Line

As RED III introduces costs and complexity, especially in Dutch ports, the competitive landscape of Northern European bunkering is shifting fast. Shipowners and operators seeking stability, clarity, and value will increasingly turn to the exempt zones in Germany, Denmark, and Sweden.

Bunker One is ready - with the supply strength, regulatory understanding, and customer-focused execution needed to navigate 2026 and beyond.