West Indies Petroleum Limited (WIP) said on Tuesday it has partnered with US-based Sunoco LP to position Jamaica as a major marine fuel hub in the Caribbean, aiming to boost the island’s shipping industry and increase fuel sales volumes.

The partnership, which began on January 1, 2025, is expected to address key challenges in the marine fuel market, including credit capacity and supply chain operations. WIP Chief Executive Officer Charles Chambers described the collaboration as a “definitive game-changer” for Jamaica’s marine fuel sector.

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“Marine fuel transactions involve very large volumes and require significant credit capacity both from suppliers and for customers,” Chambers said.

“Sunoco’s scale and financial strength will allow us to offer more competitive terms to vessel operators, potentially attracting ships that currently fuel at other ports.”

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Sunoco, a leading operator of energy infrastructure in North America, distributes over 8.5 billion gallons of fuel annually across more than 40 US states and the Caribbean. The company has been expanding its marine fuel operations in the region through acquisitions such as Peerless in Puerto Rico and NuStar Energy’s bunker business in Houston.

WIP, which has operated in Jamaica’s marine fuel sector for over a decade, will leverage its local market knowledge and infrastructure while benefiting from Sunoco’s robust supply chain and credit capabilities. With more than 750,000 barrels of storage capacity—the largest bunker capabilities in Jamaica—WIP plans to transform cost centres like tank storage services and vessel operations into revenue generators.

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The partnership aims to establish Jamaica as a premier bunkering hub in the Caribbean by capitalising on its strategic location along major shipping routes. This could lead to broader economic benefits for the country, including increased port activity and related services.

While the announcement highlights the potential for growth in Jamaica’s marine fuel market, it does not specify the financial terms of the partnership or provide detailed projections for increased sales volumes or economic impact. Additionally, there is no mention of specific infrastructure investments or timelines for achieving key milestones.

Sunoco operates more than 5,000 stations across the United States and has been actively expanding its midstream and pipeline assets to support its growing presence in Latin America and the Caribbean.

WIP also provides fuel import, export, distribution, retail, lubricants, and storage services as part of its broader energy portfolio.

Charles Chambers CEO, West Indies Petroleum.