He shoots: We Score: Gapuma Group Sets the Standard in Quality Management
10 February 2026 We’re delighted to announce that Gapuma Group has successfully passed its annual ISO 9001:2015 surveillance audit with zero non-conformities—a testament to our unwavering commitment to quality management excellence. ISO 9001 certification operates on a rigorous three-year cycle, with annual surveillance audits conducted to ensure organisations maintain the highest standards of quality management between recertification. This recent audit was performed by DNV Business Assurance, one of the world’s most authoritative and trusted certification bodies, whose independent assessment validates our continued compliance and operational excellence. This outstanding result is the culmination of a full year’s meticulous preparation led by our Quality & Office Manager, Ash Unadkat. Ash’s expertise, dedication, and exceptional attention to detail were instrumental in achieving this perfect score. The comprehensive quality of documentation, systems, and processes he presented to the auditor demonstrated a mastery of quality management that impressed DNV throughout the assessment. His strategic approach to preparation and flawless execution ensured that every aspect of our quality management system met—and exceeded—the rigorous standards required. The audit also highlighted the strength of our systems across all operational areas, with our Logistics and Trading divisions receiving outstanding feedback for their robust processes and thorough documentation. Special commendation also goes to Neha Sampat, Operations Manager, and Yanish Bhageerutty, Business Development Manager—who, despite having just returned from a productive trip to West Africa, left no question unanswered during his comprehensive presentation. Their depth of knowledge and professionalism impressed our auditors considerably. Maintaining ISO 9001 certification isn’t simply about meeting standards—it’s about embedding quality into every aspect of our operations, from procurement and logistics to customer service and continuous improvement. This success reinforces our position as a trusted partner in our industry. Finally a great vote of thanks to Stephen Harris, Operations Director, and every team member who contributed to this collective achievement. Your professionalism and commitment to excellence continue to set Gapuma Group apart.
Gapuma Group at Argus Global Base Oils 2026
5 February 2026 This week, Gapuma Group attended the Argus Global Base Oils Conference in London –a premier gathering of over 400 key decision-makers from across the international base oils and lubricants value chain. Group Managing Director Jack Bardakjian led our delegation, and was joined on Wednesday by the Senior Leadership Team from GLB Chemical Services Limited, our Nigerian subsidiary: Prakash Ramchandani (Managing Director), Thompson Longe (Technical Sales), and Akash Suhanda (Commercial Sales). The three-day conference brought together industry heavyweights including Chevron, Chevron Oronite, TotalEnergies, Lubrizol, Yunigreen, and Orlen Oil – providing invaluable face-to-face opportunities to strengthen partnerships, explore market trends, and align on our strategic vision for West Africa and beyond. These moments of direct collaboration – sharing insights, challenging assumptions, and building relationships – are what drive our continued growth in the base oils sector and reinforce our commitment to delivering exceptional value across our global markets. Building the future of base oils together.
🤝 Strengthening Our Nigeria Presence
3 February 2026 We were delighted to welcome our Senior Leadership Team from GLB Chemical Services Limited, Gapuma Group’s Nigerian subsidiary, to our London headquarters this week. Prakash Ramchandani (Managing Director), Thompson Longe (Technical Sales), and Akash Suhanda (Commercial Sales) are with us for four days of intensive strategy sessions and product training. On Tuesday, Jing Jing Lim from Chevron joined us for an in-depth product training session on Group 2 Base Oils, followed by strategic discussions on how we grow our distribution partnership in Nigeria; expanding our market penetration and delivering exceptional value to our customers across West Africa. These face-to-face sessions are invaluable; sharing insights, challenging assumptions, and aligning on our vision for the Nigerian market – that virtual meetings simply can’t replicate. During their visit the team will also attend the Argus Global Base Oils Conference; a gathering of more than key 400 decision-makers from across the international value chain shaping the future of base oils and lubricants. Great collaboration between our teams in London and Lagos – building the future of our Nigerian operations together.
Gapuma’s Shahab Mossavat Receives Freedom of the City of London
24 January 2026 We are delighted to report that Gapuma’s Communications Advisor, Shahab Mossavat, has recently received the Freedom of the City of London as a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers – a tradition dating back to mediaeval times that continues to this day. Accompanied by family and friends at the ceremony, Shahab received warm congratulations from many quarters, including from our own Managing Director, Jack Bardakjian. This honour now entitles Shahab to progress to becoming a Liveryman of his Company, which will happen on 13th March. From there, the traditional path through the City of London’s ancient governance structure moves through several stages: Liverymen can become Common Councilmen, then Aldermen, then Sheriffs, and eventually – though the odds are vanishingly slim – Lord Mayor of the City of London. So whilst the ceremonial robes might have to wait, the theoretical path is there. Becoming a Freeman grants some wonderfully archaic privileges. Shahab can now legally drive sheep across London Bridge toll-free, though we suspect Transport for London might have views on this. He’s entitled to carry a drawn sword in the City and, should the worst happen, to be hanged with a silken rope rather than hemp. There’s also exemption from press-ganging into the Royal Navy, which would have been considerably more useful in the 18th century. Whilst these ancient liberties are largely ceremonial today, they’re a reminder of London’s rich history and the enduring traditions of the City’s livery companies, which continue to support education, charity, and their respective trades. Congratulations, Shahab.
TRUMP’S GREENLAND GAMBIT: RARE EARTHS OR GEOPOLITICAL THEATRE?
21 January 2026 President Trump’s year-long campaign to acquire Greenland has crystallised around a stark claim: America needs control to secure critical minerals vital for military and economic security. From a commodities trading perspective, this narrative demands scrutiny. The mineral case appears compelling at first glance. Greenland holds two of the world’s largest rare earth deposits, including heavy rare earths like dysprosium and terbium that are essential for missile guidance systems and jet engines. China controls up to 90% of rare earth processing capacity, making supply chain diversification strategically sound. Yet the economic reality is sobering. Greenland is relatively open to investment – the US could mine there now. Only one American entity has even applied for mining permits. The challenge isn’t access; it’s mining in an incredibly harsh environment. Mining sites are remote, largely unsettled, and face local opposition. More tellingly, established supply chains already exist in the US, Canada, Australia and Brazil – markets may simply not need Greenland’s minerals. Meanwhile, 85% of Greenlanders oppose becoming American, with party leaders across the political spectrum united in rejecting US advances. The real story? Trump’s “method” reveals a strategic intent to re-establish American dominance over the western hemisphere, dividing the world into three spheres of influence. China views this as proof the US-led order is in turmoil – creating opportunities Beijing welcomes. For ESG-conscious traders, Greenland exposes the tension between resource nationalism rhetoric and commercial reality. When acquisition costs exceed value creation, and geopolitical theatre overshadows economic fundamentals, markets should take note.
Is China Winning Because of Tariffs, Not Despite Them?
14th January 2026 China’s record $1.19 trillion trade surplus for 2025 poses an intriguing question: are tariffs inadvertently strengthening Beijing’s global position? Whilst Trump’s levies successfully reduced US-China trade, they’ve seemingly accelerated an unintended consequence: China’s pivot towards emerging markets. As weaker economies struggle with rising input costs and disrupted supply chains, China has expanded aggressively into Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America—regions where competitors lack its manufacturing scale and infrastructure depth. According to the Financial Times, China’s export machine has proved “remarkably resilient,” with green technology and AI products driving growth in new markets. The Economist notes that whilst other exporters face margin pressure from tariffs, China’s vast domestic production capacity allows it to absorb costs and undercut rivals who cannot. This creates a troubling dynamic: tariffs intended to level the playing field may actually consolidate China’s dominance. Smaller economies face a double burden—higher costs from tariffs whilst simultaneously losing market share to Chinese alternatives in third countries. Bloomberg data shows Chinese goods penetrating markets previously served by Southeast Asian manufacturers, as buyers seek the lowest prices amidst global inflation. The paradox is striking. Punitive measures meant to constrain China may be eliminating its mid-tier competition instead. With a weak yuan, overcapacity from its property crisis, and unmatched scale, China can weather storms that sink smaller vessels. The question for businesses isn’t whether to prepare for a China-dominated supply landscape—it’s whether current trade policies are accelerating rather than preventing it. Perhaps scale, not sanctions, determines who survives the tariff era.
TRUMP’S IRAN TARIFF GAMBIT: A CALCULATED RISK THAT COULD RESHAPE GLOBAL TRADE
13 January 2026 Amid the chaos continuing to envelop and ravage Iran, where a large-scale protests sparked by currency collapse have been met by a brutal crackdown by authorities—with large-scale deaths and mass arrests reported—President Trump has announced immediate 25% tariffs on nations conducting business with Iran. The move introduces a new element of uncertainty into global commerce, with potentially significant ramifications for the hard-won US-China trade détente. The tariffs target major economies including China, India, Turkey, the UAE and Brazil—all substantial Iranian trading partners. China faces particular exposure, having imported approximately 90% of Iran’s oil exports through independent refineries whilst maintaining over $9 billion in documented trade. The new levy could push cumulative US tariffs on Chinese goods from the current 30.8% to approximately 56%, threatening the fragile truce established at last October’s South Korea summit that granted Washington access to critical rare earth minerals. The policy’s ambiguity—Trump provided no details on what constitutes “doing business” or how enforcement will proceed—creates immediate complications for global supply chains. India’s $1.34 billion bilateral trade with Iran, Turkey’s $5.68 billion commerce across their shared border, and Brazil’s $3 billion agricultural exports all fall within potential scope. The UAE’s role as a re-export hub for Iranian goods adds further complexity to implementation. For China specifically, the stakes extend beyond trade metrics. Beijing secured rare earth export agreements and a presidential visit to China scheduled for April as part of the détente. Trump administration adviser Peter Navarro previously cautioned against escalating Chinese tariffs further, warning “we don’t want to get to a point where we hurt ourselves.” Whether carve-outs emerge remains unclear, though the White House has yet to publish legal authority or implementation details for the Iran-related levies. As businesses navigate this evolving landscape, the incident underscores how rapidly geopolitical developments can reshape commercial calculations, requiring organisations to maintain strategic flexibility in an increasingly volatile trading environment.
Wellbeing or Work Perk? Rethinking Connection Through an ESG Lens
7th January 2026 At a time when workforce wellbeing is increasingly in the spotlight, a novel trial in Sweden has captured global attention: a major employer is experimenting with a paid “friendship hour” — a dedicated slice of the working week for staff to nurture social relationships beyond the office. Participants are given time during paid hours, plus modest financial support, to connect with friends or strengthen personal networks. Early self-reported outcomes suggest small boosts to happiness and life satisfaction. It’s a provocative idea, and one that resonates with a deeper reality: loneliness, social isolation and low workplace engagement are by no means confined to Nordic climes. Recent polling and workplace research in the UK has pointed to troubling trends in worker wellbeing and connection, with many citing stress, disengagement and a lack of meaningful interaction as part of their professional experience. As an organisation, Gapuma Group welcomes innovation in how employers think about people — especially where it aligns with our ESG commitments to mental wellbeing, inclusion and a supportive workplace culture. We champion initiatives that encourage genuine connection and mutual support, from informal coworker gatherings to structured wellbeing programmes, because strong human relationships are at the core of healthy teams. Yet it’s worth asking whether formalising friendship through corporate policy is a necessity or a symptom of broader social shifts? The pandemic, remote and hybrid working, and the blurring of work–life boundaries have reshaped how and where people interact. Does this make traditional office attendance more important, or simply impractical in an era that values flexibility? Should employers nudge people towards social connection, or trust teams to find their own balance? There are no simple answers — but one principle remains clear: belonging at work matters. At Gapuma, we will continue to explore and share practices that build authentic community, wherever our people choose to work.
Gapuma Group Strengthens Asian Presence with Singapore Branch; Makes Senior Appointment
6th Janaury 2026 We are delighted to announce that Gapuma Switzerland officially opened its Singapore branch on 2nd January 2026, marking a significant milestone in our strategic expansion across the Asian markets. The new office will serve as our regional hub for bulk chemicals and biofuels trading throughout Asia-Pacific, positioning us to better serve our clients and partners in this dynamic and growing region. Welcoming Paul Kim as Trading Director, Asia Region To lead this exciting venture, we are privileged to welcome Paul (Hyoung Jin) Kim as Trading Director, Asia Region. Paul brings over 25 years of distinguished experience in petrochemical trading, with deep expertise in aromatics, naphtha, base oils, and renewable energy commodities. A Singaporean of Korean origin, Paul’s career includes leadership roles at Trammochem Asia, where he served as Asia Regional Business Leader and PX Global Product Manager, successfully growing the regional team and expanding operations across multiple markets. Prior to this, he honed his trading acumen at Samsung Corporation and founded Questum Trading Pte Ltd, demonstrating both entrepreneurial vision and operational excellence. Paul’s extensive industry networks across Singapore, Korea, and China, combined with his strategic insight into Asian petrochemical markets, make him ideally positioned to drive Gapuma’s growth ambitions in the region. His appointment represents a significant strengthening of our trading capabilities and market intelligence in Asia. Looking Ahead This expansion reflects our commitment to serving the evolving needs of the bulk chemicals and biofuels sectors in Asia. With Paul’s leadership and our established global network, we are well-positioned to deliver value to our partners throughout the region. We look forward to introducing Paul to our wider network and to the opportunities that lie ahead as we deepen our presence in Asian markets.
Venezuela: Energy Market Stabilisation or Rules-Based Order in Crisis?
6th January 2026 The capture of Nicolas Maduro has sent shockwaves through global energy markets, though perhaps not in the way one might expect. Oil prices fell slightly in Asian trade on Tuesday, with market volatility appearing to subside following the initial shock. But beneath this surface calm lies a more complex picture for energy security and international norms. Venezuela holds the world’s largest proven oil reserves (about 303 billion barrels, or 17% of global reserves), yet sanctions and chronic underinvestment have slashed production to just 1.0-1.1 million barrels per day. The potential for U.S. oil companies to rehabilitate this capacity has sparked debate about whether this intervention serves energy market stability or something else entirely. Heavy, sour crude like the oil from Venezuela is crucial for certain products made in the refining process, including diesel, asphalt and fuels for factories and other heavy equipment. Many Gulf Coast refineries were specifically designed for Venezuelan crude, making this geographically proximate supply particularly valuable to U.S. industry. The argument for intervention, then, centres on energy security and market efficiency. Yet market reactions suggest caution. While a stable, US-aligned government in Caracas could lower the risk premium for Venezuela and its neighbours, improving capital flows, military intervention could provoke a regional backlash. Analysts broadly agree that whilst a peaceful transition might eventually increase supply and lower prices, achieving that goal will require years of work and billions of dollars of investment. Short-term instability may actually tighten supplies before any long-term benefits materialise. Here’s the uncomfortable question: can the capture and prosecution of Maduro achieve energy market stability when the precedent it sets undermines the very framework that global markets depend upon? If unilateral military action to seize resource-rich nations becomes normalised, what does that mean for contract law, sovereign immunity, and the predictability that investors require? Is this pragmatic energy policy, or are we witnessing the unravelling of the international rules-based order—one barrel of oil at a time?
Senior Gapuma Team at GTR Africa 2025, London
25th November 2025 Gapuma sent a strong delegation to GTR Africa 2025 on 20th November, joining more than 500 trade finance leaders who convened in London to examine the continent’s shifting trade and export landscape. Operations Director Stephen Harris, Business Development Manager Yanish Bhageerutty, and Operations Manager Neha Sampat attended the conference at Convene 155 Bishopsgate, engaging with specialists across six core themes shaping the future of African trade. Key Conference HighlightsDiscussions centred on Africa’s strategic response to global geopolitical realignment, the need to strengthen long-term resilience in intra-African trade, and the importance of developing local banking capacity. Delegates explored innovative working capital solutions, evolving infrastructure and supply-chain priorities, and structuring techniques for export credit transactions. With sixty-one expert speakers and representatives from 277 organisations, the event offered exceptional networking opportunities. Panels addressed Africa’s integration into global value chains, the challenges of sovereign debt, and the expanding influence of export credit agencies across the continent. Sessions on commodity trade financing, supply-chain optimisation, and digital trade frameworks — including MLETR and the adoption of the Commonwealth Model Law — were particularly relevant to Gapuma’s operational footprint. The evening networking reception concluded the programme, reinforcing relationships essential for advancing Africa’s trade finance ecosystem in a complex and rapidly evolving global environment. Gapuma’s participation reflects our commitment to remaining at the forefront of African trade, export finance, and logistics solutions.