economy
May 7, 2026
Ecopetrol contracted an exclusive vessel to transport fuels: it will bring imported gasoline from the USA
Amidst the volatility of the international maritime transport market, Ecopetrol announced the contracting of a new vessel under the time charter modality, for exclusive use for a determined period, to transport fuels within and outside the country.
TL;DR
- Ecopetrol contracted the High Challenge vessel for exclusive, time-limited use to transport fuels.
- The vessel can carry up to 320,000 barrels of gasoline, naphtha, diesel, or jet fuel.
- It will be used for domestic transport between Santa Marta, Cartagena, and Barranquilla, and for importing products from the US Gulf Coast.
- The first international operation is the import of 300,000 barrels of gasoline from the United States.
- This strategy aims to ensure timely delivery of refined products amid market volatility.
- Ecopetrol expects over 46% savings in maritime transport costs compared to regular international rates.
- The exclusive charter provides better operational control over routes, times, and availability, reducing exposure to rate increases.
- Since 2024, Ecopetrol has contracted three vessels under time charter, achieving a 92% usage efficiency.