Argentina has taken a significant step towards the sustainability of navigation. by formalizing the use of biofuels in river and sea vessels. This measure, included in the recently published Resolution 252/2025, now allows ships to use biofuels both in pure state or combined with fossil derivatives, as long as the engine allows it. The objective of this regulation not only seeks to respond to global sustainability demands, but also to align national regulations with the international context., promoting less dependence on hydrocarbons and aiming to reduce polluting emissions within the naval sector.
Shipping, one of the main causes of CO2 emissions2 globally, now finds in Argentina a legal framework that opens the door to the use of cleaner energy alternatives. The country thus joins an international trend of decarbonization., in which organizations such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) have long been pushing for the progressive replacement of fossil fuels in trade routes.
A new legal figure: the Bunker Operator
The regulation is not only limited to authorizing the use of these energy products, but also incorporates the figure of the Bunker Operator in the Argentine context. This new actor will be the one who manages the supply of biofuels to ships, either with their own facilities or in collaboration with registered warehouses. The requirements for joining this registry have been clearly defined and are intended to guarantee safety, traceability and environmental respect in the operation.
Those interested in becoming Bunker Operators must:
- Demonstrate registration as a warehouse in the corresponding registry.
- Have security audits that support your storage facilities.
- Submit environmental authorization issued by the competent authorities.
- Provide the technical manager's resume, demonstrating their training in biofuel management.
- Have authorization in the Customs registration system.
- Include a detailed description of the planned operation.
If you don't have your own warehouses, you'll need to have an agreement with a company authorized as a storage facility, transferring some of these requirements to the subcontracted infrastructure.
Environmental impact and logistics: changes in energy planning
This measure pursues several strategic objectives. On the one hand, it seeks to formally recognize and regulate an activity that is seen as key to the country's energy future and its role in regional and global trade.It also aims to accelerate and facilitate transitions in port and supply infrastructure, promoting logistics that are both more efficient and sustainable.
The impact that is highlighted This regulation may have an impact on the Argentine waterway and port system., allowing a significant reduction in the carbon footprint of domestic shipping. Furthermore, the flexibility to choose both the type of biofuel and the level of blending with fossil fuels will allow for a greater adaptability to available engine technologies and will promote progressive adoption according to the possibilities of each operator.
From an international perspective, Argentina's progress is aligned with global trends in the fight against climate change. The experience of other countries demonstrates that the introduction of biofuels in water transport Not only does it reduce emissions, but it also encourages technological innovation and promotes the use of waste from other industries., promoting the circular economy.
Challenges and perspectives: challenges towards a real transition
Although the measure represents a step forward in regulatory terms, The total decarbonization of the Argentine naval sector will depend on other factors, such as access to advanced biofuels and the solvency of the regulatory framework. Industry experts have noted that international standards are beginning to require second-generation products—those manufactured from waste, such as used oils—thus paving the way for future investments and the profile of the sector in the coming years.
On the other hand, the price of biofuels for ships will not be centrally regulated, but will be the result of private agreements between industry players, which, according to authorities, will provide flexibility and encourage innovation. This will allow shipowners to prioritize, if they wish, the most environmentally efficient fuel option, even if it is somewhat more expensive.
Finally, this regulation is based on Law 27.640, which regulates the biofuels value chain in Argentina until 2030 and seeks to lay the groundwork for a gradual transition in the national shipping sector, adapting to the sustainability demands on the global agenda.
The change in Argentine legislation regarding the use of biofuels in ships demonstrates the search for Energy solutions that balance competitiveness, sustainability and autonomyArgentina is thus positioning itself as a relevant player in the transformation of the South American maritime sector, with all the opportunities and challenges that this entails.
