GAC Kuwait

First of all Sudesh, please tell our readers a little about yourself.  When did you start in logistics, and how many years have you lived in the Middle East?

I started my journey in the shipping and logistics industry over 32 years ago, in New Delhi, India, where I gained essential experience in express supply chain management. About three years later, I moved to the Middle East to work for GAC, initially in Oman, then the UAE and now Kuwait. I have been actively contributing to the growth of the region’s shipping and logistics sector ever since.

GAC is, of course, a well-known and respected company. But what can you tell us about the office in Kuwait? When was it established? What is your headcount?

GAC has a strong global reputation, particularly in the Middle East, as a leading provider of shipping, logistics and marine services. Kuwait was where it all started, with the founding of our very first office there in 1956. Today, GAC Kuwait remains a key player, with a team of about 70 shipping and logistics professionals working to provide a range of integrated services and solutions to help our customers make the most of the country’s strategic location.

What kind of business in logistics do you mainly focus on in GAC Kuwait?  The market is not that large I suppose, so how do you develop your business when faced with a lot of competition in a small market?

Despite the smaller size and highly competitive nature of the local market, GAC Kuwait thrives by focusing on what we do best— drawing our global reach and resources and constantly adapting to the evolving needs of our clients and the market.

We offer a full range of shipping and logistics services in Kuwait, including port agency (tanker, dry cargo, military, cruise), carrier agency, international moving, freight forwarding (multimodal, general cargo and projects), P&I / H&M services, offshore support, energy logistics, ship spares logistics, AOG, warehousing, customs brokerage and various value-added services.

Our commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility, along with client-centric approach, puts us in a great position for continued growth and strong market presence.

Could you provide our readers with a few examples of projects or shipments that you have handled recently in or out of Kuwait?

GAC Kuwait represents several leading principals, including NYK RORO, NYKbulk & Projects Carriers, ONE and YUSEN Logistics. On a typical day, our teams manage tanker operations at offshore terminals, provide dry cargo and liner services at various ports, and take care of customs processes for a diverse range of customers, showcasing our breadth of expertise.

Our team is actively involved in managing cargoes for ongoing energy and oil & gas projects, as well as key infrastructure developments in Kuwait. For example, we recently handled a major project for a Wastewater Treatment Plant, delivering comprehensive end-to-end solutions, including customs documentation, inspection, loading, transportation, securing, insurance, offloading and storage – effectively providing a seamless, door-to-door service for our client.

By combining our local shipping and logistics expertise with additional services, we ensure efficient and reliable support for complex projects.

Is it at all possible to arrange transshipment via Kuwait to other countries in the Gulf? How about customs clearance in Kuwait? Is that difficult?

Yes, transshipment via Kuwait to other Gulf countries is feasible. Ports like Shuwaikh and Shuaiba are well-connected and equipped to handle transshipments efficiently across GCC.

However, while manageable, customs clearance in the country can be intricate. As part of the GCC Common Customs framework, Kuwaiti Customs plays a crucial role in the logistics chain. Timely and accurate submission shipping documents is critical. Partnering with experienced customs brokers like GAC Kuwait is highly advisable to ensure as smooth process to avoid the challenges those unfamiliar with local regulations may face.

Is there more than one port in Kuwait, and would you have both breakbulk and container facilities? What can you tell us about the port(s) of Kuwait?

Kuwait has two main ports – Shuwaikh and Shuaiba – both equipped with container and breakbulk facilities. These ports are essential for Kuwait’s trade, particularly in handling containers, general cargo and breakbulk shipments, including a wide range of goods from construction materials to industrial equipment. Doha Port serves a more regional and specialised role, catering primarily to smaller vessels and specific cargo types.

How is it best for people to get in touch with you?

For pricing inquiries, please email us at pricing.kuwait@gac.com.

I’m always available to support:

Sudesh Chaturvedi
Managing Director, GAC Kuwait
P.O. Box 206 37, Safat 130 67, Kuwait
E-mail: sudesh.chaturvedi@gac.com
Tel no.: +965 2220 5801
Mobile: +965 9960 0534
gac.com/kuwait