GAC opens full-fledged ship agency operation in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Houston, Texas, 11 June 2010 – The importance of Brazil in the shipping and oil & gas sector has prompted the GAC Group to establish its latest port agency operation, with its coordination office at Rio de Janeiro. From there, GAC Brazil’s experienced team will liaise with a network of approved sub-agents to offer a wide range of port agency services, husbandry services, crew changes, medical assistance and provisions at all major Brazilian ports. Meeting demand Recent development in Brazil’s economy and industrial sector has boosted demand for a first class ship agency and related services. As part of the GAC Group, a global provider of shipping logistics and marine services, GAC Brazil has the expertise, experience and resources to meet that demand. “We operate in a world where clients want more integrated service packages and the savings that comes out of it. GAC Brazil aims to provide differentiated shipping and logistics services to its principals and clients, which will guarantee the maximum efficiency in our services for shipping and logistics business, “says Rodrigo De Marco, GAC Brazil Managing Director. The company also meets the needs of the burgeoning energy sector for mobilization, demobilization, offshore support and crew transfers, as well as sectors like dry bulk, general cargo, tankers and ro-ro. And for door-to-deck delivery of parts, its designated ships spares logistics department provides nationwide coverage. Brazil’s mineral and agriculture exports are rapidly growing and the new GAC operation offers an attractive and reliable alternative to the country’s often-fragmented local agency market. It is complemented by its well-established full range of logistics services that includes air, sea, road, ship spares and project cargo logistics, customs clearance and bonded warehousing. Boundless potential “Establishing a ship agency under our own name in Brazil is a natural step for GAC, to serve both our existing customers in the country and to attract new business,” says Robert Olsson, General Manager, Shipping Services, GAC Brazil. “Growth potential in Brazil is boundless. In the long term I expect GAC to become a strong player in this market. The GAC team has the network, knowledge and contacts to be the first choice for ship owners and charterers active in Brazil.” About GAC Group GAC is a global provider of shipping, logistics and marine services. These services are constantly being refined and integrated to serve our customers’ increasing need for competitive solutions. Emphasizing trust, reliability and a strong human touch, GAC has been building its reputation in its chosen markets since 1956. Headquartered in Dubai, GAC employs over 9,000 people in more than 300 offices worldwide. More info at www.gacworld.com/gemsAbout GAC Shipping GAC Shipping is a global leader in ship and hub agency services. It represents more than 3,500 Principals and handles more than 50,000 vessels annually. In addition to ship/hub agency services, GAC Shipping is an experienced provider of bunker supplies, ship-to-ship transfers (with GAC Marine), canal transits and ship supply services. It also acts as correspondent for most International Group P&I Clubs. For more information, visit www.gacworld.com. Media Contacts Magen Singleton Communications Executive, Americas Group Mob: +1-832-594-5887 Email: magen.singleton@gacworld.com Esther Oon-Bybjerg Director, Corporate Communications Mob: +65 96911076 Email: esther.oon-bybjerg@gacworld.com