GAC Brazil has added specialist support for chemical tankers to its package of integrated services.
This marks the latest milestone in the rapid growth of GAC's operations in Brazil. In the past year, it opened a third office in Santos, adding to existing bases at Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, offering companies conducting business in Brazil a range of optimal services - including shipping and logistics support, customs clearance, warehouse intelligence and bunker fuel supply - under a single umbrella.
According to the Brazilian Chemical Industry Association (ABIQUIM), the country's chemical industry is the world's seventh largest. Last year alone, chemical products made up more than 60% of Brazil's imports, totaling more than $40 billion.
To further enhance GAC's support for the sector, industry veteran Leonel S. Pedloweski has been appointed as Chemical Bulk Key Account Manager for the region, based at Santos, Brazil's main gateway port for chemical imports and exports. He brings to his new role 35 years of extensive ship agent experience and a strong network of chemical and tanker business contacts. Previously, he served as a Branch Manager specializing in ship attendance at port, cargo operations, issuance of cargo documents, port authorities' on-line systems and owners' matters.
"Our new focus on chemical tanker services in response to the demands of the market sends a firm message about our commitment to this important industry, and by welcoming a highly-respected professional like Leonel to our team, we strengthen that message," says Rodrigo Demarco, GAC Brazil's Managing Director. "GAC Brazil's growth, strong team and integrated services give us the tools we need to deliver on our promise to look after our customers and meet all their needs."