Apr.25--GERMANY's global liner shipping company, Hapag-Lloyd, has signed an agreement with the Dubai global shipping and logistics provider GAC to handle their vessels calling at ports in Nigeria and Ghana.
    GAC will act as full liner agents for Hapag-Lloyd, actively selling its liner services in the region, as well as providing a range of shipping agency and complementary services for its fleet, the company said.
    The deal comes as part of Hapag-Lloyd's strategy to develop and expand its presence in sub-Sahara Africa. Currently, the company operates a fleet of 150 container vessels with 300 offices in 114 countries.
    GAC Nigeria managing director Neale Proctor, to lead the business, said: "GAC and Hapag-Lloyd share the same sound, ethical values and approach to business, evident in a commitment to looking after people, going the extra mile to surpass customer expectations, operating in an environmentally-aware way and having active social responsibility programmes. Both companies also combine global presence with strong local knowledge.
    "In Africa, we have similar strategic ambitions, including the desire to take advantage of the opportunities in the region's largely untapped markets. Together, GAC and Hapag-Lloyd will last the course," Mr Proctor said.
    GAC has operated in Nigeria since 1978. The company has been building its reputation in its chosen markets since 1956 and employs over 9,000 people in more than 300 offices worldwide.

(Source:Shippingazette)