The first of three Iranian tankers carrying gasoline to Venezuela has begun discharging operations as the two countries under US sanctions continue to strengthen their trade links.

The 35,200-dwt Forest (built 2004) discharged nearly 247,000 barrels of gasoline at El Palito on Tuesday, Kpler data shows.

The sisterships Fortune and Faxon (both built 2004), each believed to be carrying similar amounts of fuel, are due to enter Venezuelan waters in the coming days.