RCL and OR Sign MOU to Begin Biofuel Use in Thai Container Shipping

Regional Container Lines Public Company Limited (RCL) and PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Company Limited (OR) have entered into an agreement to introduce biofuel into Thailand’s container shipping sector. The memorandum of understanding, signed on June 4, outlines the supply of Bio Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (Bio VLSFO) for use in RCL’s fleet.
Under the agreement, OR’s Energy Solutions unit will supply biofuel tailored for marine use. The fuel is expected to be used in RCL’s regional operations to lower carbon dioxide emissions from its vessels. Specific implementation timelines and fuel volumes have not been disclosed.
The initiative marks an early step toward integrating alternative fuels into Thailand’s maritime sector, where conventional marine fuels remain the norm. Bio VLSFO is compatible with existing engines and infrastructure, making it a near-term option for emissions reduction without major retrofits.
Both companies indicated that operational trials would follow the signing, with future expansion dependent on performance outcomes.