Kuwait Petroleum Corporation Supplies Oil Shipments from Vessels Outside the Strait of Hormuz
Emad Al-Kandari, Deputy Managing Director for Global Marketing Contracts at Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC), affirmed that the corporation continues to support its clients in global petroleum product markets amid commercial changes and disruptions affecting shipping movements in the region. He emphasized that Kuwait’s relationship with clients extends beyond mere pricing.
Speaking at a session titled “Strengthening Partnerships with Clients in Petroleum Product Markets Amid Rapid Commercial Changes” at APPEC 2026 in Singapore, Al-Kandari stated that KPC prioritizes direct and continuous communication with its clients under exceptional circumstances, sharing available information and collaborating to find solutions that help secure their supply needs. He noted that shipping disruptions in the region have imposed unprecedented challenges on shipping and trade operations.
He explained that when security conditions permit, Kuwait sends some vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. Additionally, it offers clients alternative options, including ship-to-ship (STS) oil transfers outside the strait, which help maintain supply flows and reduce risks associated with vessel movements.
Al-Kandari pointed out that insurance and shipping costs have risen to unprecedented levels due to regional developments, impacting trade flows and product transport prices. He confirmed that KPC works with its clients to address these challenges with maximum flexibility.
He added that uncertainty was greatest at the onset of the crisis, during February, March, and April, when market participants lacked clarity. However, the situation has become clearer over time, prompting companies to reassess their options and supply sources.
Al-Kandari stated that KPC focuses on maintaining long-term relationships with clients rather than solely engaging in short-term, price-driven transactions. He described clients as “business friends,” emphasizing that building trust is a fundamental element of commercial relationships.
Al-Kandari stressed that Kuwait holds a significant presence in global markets and possesses the capacity to diversify its operations and commercial network. He reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to supporting its clients and ensuring continuous supply.
He noted that Kuwait has demonstrated its ability to manage exceptional circumstances during the crisis by working closely with clients, offering alternatives, and leveraging its network of partners, storage facilities, terminals, and logistics services.
Al-Kandari highlighted that the Gulf region remains a primary energy source for the world, and developments concerning the Strait of Hormuz underscore the importance of energy security and the safety of global trade routes. He added that stable shipping movements through the region would benefit not only Gulf states but also help global markets return to higher levels of stability, given the region’s critical role in supplying global energy.
Concluding his remarks, Al-Kandari reaffirmed Kuwait’s ability to continue fulfilling its commitments to clients, stating that the corporation “is capable, and will remain capable” of supporting its clients and maintaining its commercial relationships despite exceptional circumstances.
