BP is reportedly taking steps to take a cargo of Alaska North Slope (ANS) crude to international markets on a foreign-flag ship, a rare move for shipments that are typically destined for US West Coast ports.

It is thought to be the first export of ANS crude on a foreign-flag ship in three decades.

The 159,000-dwt Tianlong Spirit (built 2009) will pick up the cargo in Valdez after receiving regulatory approvals, BP spokeswoman Dawn Patience told TradWinds..