Alliance agency deal strengthens GAC's presence in Mexico

Mexico has emerged as a major oil-producing nation, and its prospects as a producer of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) has further strengthened its strategic importance to global markets, including its neighbour to the north, the United States.

Through its head office Coatzacolacos and branch offices in Cayo Arcas, Dos Bocas and Salina Cruz, GAC-Tomas Ruiz covers all Mexican ports and terminals.

Century of experience

The GAC-Tomas Ruiz alliance brings together a century of agency experience at Mexican ports and terminals with the global reach and resources of the GAC Group. Those combined strengths will stand the alliance in good stead to meet the challenges presented by the development of the Mexican shipping business and growing energy and offshore sectors.

Services provided include port agency, handling of crew and spares, bunkering, inspections, coordination of operations with shippers/receivers and communications assistance. The excellent long-standing relationships Tomas Ruiz enjoys with the Mexican Authorities also add value to the service provided.

Commitment to excellence

For the past six years, Tomas Ruiz has acted as GAC's sub-agents in Mexico. In that time, the two companies have formed a close relationship based on common values and a commitment to strive for operational excellence.

Lars Heisselberg, GAC's Vice President - Shipping Services, says:

"The formation of the GAC-Tomas Ruiz alliance in Mexico is a natural and much valued progression, giving us a firm presence in a region with great potential for future growth."

Director Daniel Ruiz Flores welcomed the alliance between GAC and his 99-year old company. He says, "GAC's global network will enhance Tomas Ruiz's market coverage and international profile as well as gives us the opportunity to strengthen our business focus on diverse sectors from LPG to dry bulk such as grains, iron ore and fertilisers."

The GAC global agency network is an important growth model for the GAC Group to enhance its position as a more integrated and diversified service provider with in-depth local expertise. GAC has rapidly expanded its global agency network through strategic tie-ups with suitable partners in its target geographical expansion areas over the last five years.