Markets in Motion: Where can Europe secure jet fuel to replace the Mideast Gulf?

Flashpoint: Markets in Motion

Europe has few straightforward options to replace lost jet fuel flows from the Middle East following disruption in the Strait of Hormuz. With Asian markets pulling cargoes eastward and export restrictions tightening supply, attention is shifting to the Atlantic Basin – particularly the US Gulf Coast and West Africa – though available volumes are unlikely to fully offset the shortfall.

Key takeaways

• Eastern barrels are increasingly unavailable as strong Asian pricing and export restrictions in China and potentially South Korea divert cargoes away from Europe.
• Indian supply remains a potential relief valve but EU sanctions exposure linked to Russian crude runs at Jamnagar continues to deter buyers.
• The Atlantic Basin – primarily the US Gulf Coast and West Africa – is the most realistic replacement source, though logistical constraints and limited spare export capacity mean volumes will fall short of replacing Middle Eastern supply.