30 October 2006: The Swedish East Indiaman Gotheborg may be a sailing ship out of the 18th century, but GAC knows its needs were no less demanding than that of any modern ocean-going vessel, as she berthed at the China port over the last few weeks.

In fact, the challenges proved even tougher with the Gotheborg, according to Capt Frank Xia, who was overseeing the agency operations for the port call in Shanghai. The special requirements included providing canvass for her sails, ropes for her rigging, and oak timber to replace worn or damaged parts on the sailing ship, says Capt Xia.

In addition to facilitating services such as customs, immigration and other formalities for the vessel while at anchor, GAC also played a central role in coordinating the Gotheborg's port security plan requirements, the smooth delivery of fresh water supplies, supply of safety gear and the environmentally-friendly removal of the ship's garbage and sewage, reflecting the vessel's commitment to preventing pollution to the Huangpu river in Shanghai.

These port agency services were offered as part of the GAC Group sponsorship agreement with the Swedish East India Company (SOIC) to support the Sweden-to-China expedition of the vessel.

"We are working very closely with the Ship's Master and deck officers, ensuring that our tasks do not inconvenience the many activities organised onboard the vessel during her port stay," adds Capt Xia.

One of the upcoming activities onboard Gotheb?rg is the GAC 50th anniversary reception to be held on 24 October 2006. The event is open to more than 40 GAC guests who will enjoy an exclusive gathering onboard the vessel.

The Gotheb?rg leaves Shanghai on 29 October for Zhoushan, Zhejiang province, for repairing and maintenance work.

-Ends-

Editor's Notes
About the GAC Group
The GAC Group (GAC) is the world's largest independent shipping, logistics and marine services provider, with over 230 offices worldwide.

Estabished in 1956, GAC's core business covers three key areas - shipping, logistics and marine services. The GAC brand reflects value for money, quality, continuity, innovation and global reach.

GAC employs more than 7,000 people worldwide. The GAC Group corporate head office is in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates. For more information about GAC, visit www.gacworld.com

About GAC Shipping
GAC Shipping is a leading provider of global port and hub agency services.

In addition to ship's agency, GAC Shipping offers an extensive range of specialised services such as Bunker Supplies, Ship-to-Ship Transfers, Canal Transit and Ship Supply Services. GAC Shipping also acts as correspondents for most International Group P&I Clubs.

GAC Shipping today represents the interests of more than 3,500 Principals worldwide and attends to over 30,000 vessels annually.

Press Release 2006