---

GAC Bunker Fuels Ltd. (GBFL) has announced the launch of a new dedicated office in India and the appointment of an additional trader in Singapore.

In a statement, GBFL said the launch of its office in Cochin reflects the company’s commitment to operational excellence in the Indian Subcontinent, where it is already represented by a team based in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Shipping veteran Captain Sathya Chandrashekar has been appointed to run the new Cochin operation.

GBFL’s Global Director Nick Browne said that despite the challenges the Indian economy currently faces, the country remains an important strategic shipping location and is likely to become more attractive for vessels seeking bunker fuel supplies as bureaucracy is reduced and prices come down.

He added: "GAC has a significant ship agency presence at India’s ports, and our agency offices have long been generating enquiries for us. That gives us a good foundation on which to build the GBFL presence in India from which to handle growing demand."

Singapore appointment

Experienced trader Dave Goh [pictured] has joined Steve Chen at the GBFL Asia Pacific base in Singapore.

"He brings to his new role 17 years of shipping experience, including four years in international bunker trade working with blue chip customers, and strong relationships with local suppliers in the region, and will help drive the company’s further growth in the burgeoning Asian market."

The GBFL network of dedicated offices also includes teams in the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, UK, Norway, Egypt, Brazil and the USA.

"GAC Bunker Fuels is an ISO 9001 certified company with a strong focus on business excellence, quality control and strict supplier vetting procedures. The company has developed strong relationships with trustworthy suppliers worldwide, enabling them to offer competitive prices with flexible credit lines," the company said.

Image: Experienced trader Dave Goh.