In Korea, Busan Economic Newspaper reports South Korea’s Ministry of SMEs and Startups designated Ulsan as the “Ammonia Bunkering Free Regulatory Zone,” launching a 30-month initiative from June 2025 through December 2027 with ₩16 billion (about $11.6 million) in funding to develop ammonia ship fuel technologies and safety systems.
The designation allows Ulsan and 23 participating institutions—including Ulsan Technopark and the Korea Research Institute of Ships and Ocean Engineering—to test ammonia fueling systems and equipment under relaxed regulatory conditions. The project covers infrastructure development, demonstration R&D, and commercialization support, including insurance and deployment assistance.
One focus will be building a training and safety protocol for truck-to-ship ammonia fuel transfer, with field trials using mobile tankers. The city aims to support local shipbuilding and chemical industries in aligning with International Maritime Organization decarbonization goals.
“This special zone designation is expected to help Ulsan secure a leading position in the global market,” said Ulsan Mayor Kim Doo-gyeom. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries’ Ryu Hong-ryeol added, “We expect to boost the business through the successful demonstration of the world’s first medium-sized ammonia-powered ship.” Ammonia, a zero-carbon fuel, is viewed as a key candidate for low-emission maritime transport.
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Category: Sustainable Marine Fuels
