![\"Nippon](\"https:\/\/shipandbunker.cdn.speedyrails.net\/a\/img\/_asp_f5a52cee7fa2b607f0bb84c7c8a9a7e8.v.652.jpg\")
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\n\tJatropha-based biofuel blend supplied to a Ro-Ro ship. Image Credit: Nippon Biofuel<\/p>\n
\n\tJapanese biofuel firm Nippon Biofuel\u00a0has been selected for a Japanese government-backed project to develop a marine biofuel supply chain spanning Africa and key bunkering hubs.<\/p>\n
\n\tThe initiative, led by Japan\u2019s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), is valued at around JPY 7 billion (around $44 million), including JPY 4 billion in subsidies, it said in an email statement on Sunday.<\/p>\n
\n\tThe project will focus on jatropha cultivation and biofuel production in Mozambique and Ghana, alongside plans to build bunkering infrastructure across Africa, Singapore and Japan.<\/p>\n
\n\tIt targets an annual biofuel supply of 400,000 mt by 2032.<\/p>\n
\n\tSeveral Japanese maritime stakeholders have expressed support for the project, including Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Kuribayashi Steamship Co., Ltd., Nippon Kaiji Kyokai, Fujii Oil Co., Ltd. and Tottori University, although formal participation is yet to be confirmed.<\/p>\n
\n\tAs part of early activity linked to the concept, a Fujii Oil bunkering vessel has already supplied a marine fuel blend<\/a> containing 10% jatropha biofuel to a Ro-Ro vessel operated by Kuribayashi Steamship.<\/p>\n
\n\tThe model covers the full value chain from production to bunkering, and includes carbon reduction measures such as afforestation and biochar.<\/p>\n