United Arab Chemical Carriers orders 8 45,000 dwt chemical tankers

United Arab Chemical Carriers orders 8 45,000 dwt chemical tankers Dubai-registered United Arab Chemical Carriers Ltd. on Dec. 9 signed contracts with SLS Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. for eight 45,000-deadweight-ton chemical tankers with options for two more. The vessels will be delivered in 2011 and 2012.
   UACC was established in July by United Arab Shipping Co. (S.A.G.) together with other investors from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
   The company said the order will help it develop a fleet of medium-to-long range product tankers to serve the Gulf’s expanding oil refining and chemical industries. UACC has already taken delivery of its first medium range product tanker and has four more on order.
   “I am extremely pleased with this development, which marks the beginning of our ambitious plan to become a major player in the rapidly growing petrochemical market across the GCC countries — it is our aim to ensure that the expansive projects of our customers are well supported by cost efficient, safe and environmentally friendly means of transportation,” said UACC Chairman Ken Bloch Soerensen.