---

Gulf Petrochem Group has today announced the appointment of Deepak Dharwal [pictured] as bunker trader, further bolstering its bunker trading team in the Middle East.

Dharwal joins Gulf Petrochem's team of bunker traders based in the United Arab Emirates, where he will be focussed on the firm's bunkering operations in Fujairah, Khor Fakkan and Jebel Ali.

In a statement, Gulf Petrochem said: "Dharwal brings with him over 8 years of experience in the bunker industry and an extensive portfolio of contacts throughout the Middle East and Asia. In his new role he will focus on sales and marketing of marine fuels in the region."

Prior to joining Gulf Petrochem, Dharwal had been employed as branch manager for LQM Petroleum Services, Inc. in Singapore since April 2013. Before that, he was bunker trader at Chemoil Adani Pvt Ltd between August 2010 and March 2013, where he handled bunker enquiries for ports in India and Sri Lanka.

The hiring of Dharwal follows the launch earlier this year of Gulf Petrochem's fully licensed bunker supply operations out of its facility in Fujairah.

Commenting on the appointment, Prerit Goel, Group Director at Gulf Petrochem Group, remarked: "The group’s bunkering offering has witnessed steady growth over the last year. We have seen an increase in demand for main grades such as FO 380 cst, FO 180 cst and we are continuing to build on that growth with the appointment of Deepak Dharwal to our team. He brings with him a wealth of experience from India and Singapore which will allow him to continue to develop our offerings to ensure we always meet our customers' expectations."