---

GAC Group has confirmed that it has formed a dedicated team to meet growing global demand for a wide range of specialised support services for gas carrier operations.

GAC claims that it has already handled over 10,000 LNG port calls around the world in the past decade. However, the decision to form GAC LNG Services was made in response to the recent surge in global production, particularly in North America, bringing with it growing demand from ship owners, suppliers, buyers and receivers of LNG for dedicated expertise in the provision of specialized support services.

Headquartered in North America, GAC LNG Services draws upon the LNG expertise and experience of the GAC global network to respond to that demand. It is headed by Bob Bandos, GAC North America's Managing Director - Shipping, with the support of Howard Candelet, former Vice President for BG Shipping & Trading, who brings many years of experience in shipping and commercial expertise to the team.

In a statement, Bandos said: "The LNG market is now poised to open up dramatically with exports from the US. For the first time, LNG is being sold to new players. Many companies have identified the commercial opportunity this presents, but need the marine expertise to handle the shipping side of the business. That is where GAC LNG Services has an important role to play.

"Complying with the complex regulatory, technical and operational requirements of LNG shipping requires specialist technical knowledge. That puts some smaller companies at a disadvantage, particularly when it comes to competing with larger LNG operators. GAC LNG Services delivers the technical services required to support safe, compliant and efficient port calls for gas carriers. We are confident in our expertise and we look forward to the further development of GAC LNG Services on a global basis."

GAC LNG Services has a strong US focus, in light of the emergence of US shale gas as an important aspect of the business. However, Tim Karl, GAC North America's Business Manager for LNG Services says its capabilities will extend globally, thanks to the group's worldwide network.

"The agent is a vital link in the LNG supply chain, ensuring that port calls by gas carriers are conducted safely and efficiently," Karl added. "GAC LNG Services provides a full service solution for the sector, spanning chartering, voyage operations, technical and commercial information so our customers can look at arbitrage and swap opportunities."

In addition to undertaking marine compatibility studies at short notice for LNG terminals, and providing pricing information, GAC LNG Services also offers to manage every requirement during the voyage and all port calls.