Wed 7 Jan 2009, 05:43 GMT

Aegean announces expansion plans in Morocco


Supplier named exclusive bunkering company in Tangiers.



Aegean Marine Petroleum Network Inc.. has today announced that Horizon Tangiers Terminal S.A. (HTTSA), a special purpose consortium, has named Aegean as the exclusive bunkering company for the new port in Tangiers, Morocco.

The agreement, which is scheduled to become effective in January 2009 upon completion of final documentation, will further expand Aegean's global presence.

The appointment of Aegean by HTTSA is an important part of the consortium's effort to expand the modern port in this growing region. Currently, the port serves approximately 7,000 vessels on an annual basis and is expected to increase to more than 10,000 vessels annually in 2010.

Aegean will provide retail bunkering services to ships in port on an exclusive basis for a period of 25 to 35 years. Aegean will also have the right to expand its operation beyond the port perimeter, which is strategically located along the Strait of Gibraltar connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea.

Commenting on the agreement, E. Nikolas Tavlarios, Aegean President, said "We are excited to have been appointed by HTTSA to serve as the exclusive, long-term bunkering company in the port of Tangiers upon conclusion of a competitive selection process. By once again entering a new strategic market, Aegean will further strengthen its leading position as an independent supplier of marine fuel on a global basis. The port of Tangiers serves as an attractive gateway to the vast Mediterranean and North African regions and is well positioned for future growth.

"As Tangiers continues to expand into a major transportation hub serving important shipping routes, we expect to enhance our ability to meet the burgeoning demand for our bunkering services and significantly increase sales volumes."

Mr. Tavlarios added, "We expect to commence operations in the first quarter 2009 upon receiving the necessary trading, bunkering, and environmental licenses required by the local authorities. Going forward, we intend to draw upon our considerable financial strength and capitalize on additional expansion opportunities that complement our existing platform and drive long-term shareholder value."


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