Despite
the direct and residual effects of the recent economic crisis on
shipping worldwide, and increasing competition in the region, the
Gibraltar Port Authority (GPA) reported growth in both the total number
of ships calling for bunkers and in the quantity of fuel delivered last
year.
The number of vessels using the Western Anchorage bunker slots was
5,571, while another 32 undertook commercial ship-to-ship transfer
operations, according to figures produced by the GPA.
Gibraltar’s Minister for Shipping, the Hon Albert Isola, said, “I am
delighted to see such a pivotal contributor to Gibraltar's economy grow
from strength to strength, particularly at a time when neighbouring
ports are reporting a slowdown in activity.
“The Port’s robust performance is testament to the outstanding work of
the GPA in its efforts to further improve efficiency and in aggressively
marketing the port. It is also down to the enduring commitment of the
bunker suppliers, shipping agents and other operators at
the Port of
Gibraltar for which I wish to express my sincere gratitude and support,”
he said.
CEO and Captain of the Port, Bob Sanguinetti, commented, 'Whilst early
days, this trend reinforces Gibraltar's position as the Mediterranean’s
leading bunker port and its resilience as a centre of maritime
excellence. I look forward to continuing to work in increasing our range
and quality of services together with the team at the GPA and, of
course, our private sector partners.’
In April, the GPA will continue its push to promote the jurisdiction in
a joint financial services/port marketing visit to Singapore and Hong
Kong, headed by Minister Isola together with representatives from the
private sector.
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