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Australian LPG marketer Elgas Ltd and Japan's Astomos Energy Corporation have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to look into working together on LPG bunkering projects in the Asia-Pacific region.

"This MoU will enhance cooperation between Astomos and Elgas across all aspects of LPG bunkering, including the sharing of information, research and development and collaboration in securing global supply sites for LPG bunkering within the Asia Pacific," Astomos said.

"Over the past few years, Astomos and Elgas have developed a strong business relationship in the field of seaborne LPG trading. This MoU will strengthen the relationship between the two companies and will contribute to the expansion into new business areas," Astomos added.

Earlier this year, Bunker Index reported that Astomos and Statoil had signed an MoU to look into projects related to the use of LPG as a marine fuel. Both firms will be sharing information and performing research into initiatives related to LPG bunkering - including LPG-fuelled vessels and the development of global supply sites for the supply of LPG as a fuel to ships.

Tokyo-headquartered Astomos operates more than 20 LPG vessels and is involved in LPG trading, import and distribution. It is jointly owned by Idemitsu Kosan (51 percent) and Mitsubishi Corporation (49 percent).