Buyers turning to cheaper bunkering alternatives.

Brightoil 668 released following detention late last week.

Bunker tanker at about 5,000 dwt will be the territory's second biggest barge.

Ratification of convention at the end of this year is progressing 'smoothly'.

Bunkering operations are typically disrupted when a typhoon hits.

The China Maritime Safety Administration will act as the issuing authority for Hong Kong-registered ships.

Hong Kong pushes back ratification date, 'few accidents involving spills in the territory's waters'.

Ratification of the code now expected late this year.