Nigeria Expands Clean Energy Logistics with New LPG Carrier
19th August 2025 Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned the new 40,000 CBM Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) carrier built for West Africa Gas Limited (WAGL)—a joint venture between NNPC Ltd. and Sahara Group. The commissioning of MT Iyaloja (Lagos) marks more than fleet expansion; it underscores Nigeria’s growing role in regional energy flows, particularly as LPG emerges as a cleaner transition fuel across Africa. Speaking on behalf of the President, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, praised WAGL and its partners for their strategic foresight in bridging critical energy infrastructure gaps. From a commodities and logistics perspective, the carrier strengthens supply chains from refinery output to end-user delivery, enhancing affordability, reliability, and regional distribution. With WAGL’s fleet capacity now exceeding 162,000 CBM, plans to add both a Small Gas Carrier and a Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC) will further integrate Nigeria into global commodity flows. The ship’s name, Iyaloja (“Leader of the Market” in Yoruba), honours Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji MFR, the late mother of President Tinubu, with the commissioning ceremony featuring a ribbon cutting by the current Iyaloja-General of Nigeria, Alhaja Folasade Mujidat Tinubu-Ojo. In commodities terms, this story is about more than ships—it highlights energy logistics as the backbone of refinery output, cross-border trade, and Africa’s integration into global clean energy markets.
Brazil’s Market Decline Highlights Regional Risks
14 August 2025 Brazil’s financial markets experienced renewed turbulence on 13 August, with the Ibovespa index falling 0.9% to 136,687 points, reversing gains from the previous session. The decline underscores how global commodity pressures and domestic fiscal concerns are weighing on Latin America’s largest economy. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva announced $6 billion in temporary credit lines and tax incentives aimed at supporting exporters and cushioning tariff-related shocks. While these measures provide short-term relief, questions remain over long-term fiscal sustainability and the impact of increased spending without secured revenue streams. Commodity heavyweights Petrobras and Vale were among those affected, with share prices weakening on the back of softer oil and iron ore prices. Corporate results also reflected mixed fortunes: travel company CVC reported larger-than-expected losses, sending its shares down 10%, while construction firm MRV gained more than 6%, highlighting uneven resilience across sectors. For the wider region, Brazil’s market trajectory remains a bellwether. A sustained slowdown in its commodity sector could have knock-on effects for trade flows, investment, currency stability, and logistics networks throughout Latin America. Against the backdrop of optimism in the United States, Europe, and Asia, the caution in Latin America illustrates the region’s heightened sensitivity to Brazil’s fiscal and market dynamics — and the far-reaching implications for global supply chains.
Introducing the Gapuma G: A Cultural Icon in the Making
7th August 2025 It isn’t a uniform.It isn’t compulsory.It’s a gift — from the company to the people who make it what it is. The Gapuma G-shirt was created to celebrate our colleagues. It’s about personal pride, shared purpose, and telling the world, quietly but confidently: this is who I work with, and this is what we do. Some wear it when they travel. Some take it on holiday. Some throw it on at the weekend, and others save it for something special — like Jack running his next marathon in Lisbon. Wherever it appears, the G-shirt gets noticed. People ask what it means. That curiosity is the point. It invites connection. It starts conversations. It opens the door to our story. Ash Unadkat, our Quality and Business Manager, put it perfectly: “This isn’t about wearing a brand. It’s about being proud of what we represent — and showing it in your own way, wherever you are in the world.” So if you’ve got your “G” on, pause for a second. Take a photo. Tag us. Share your story. Not everyone gets to wear one — and those who see it often wish they could. It’s more than a shirt. It’s part of what it means to belong to the Gapuma family. Meta description: Discover the story behind the Gapuma G-shirt — a symbol of pride, purpose, and global connection, worn by colleagues worldwide to celebrate the Gapuma family.
Markets Eye Fiscal Tightening as Commodities Traders Brace for Ripple Effects
6th August 2025 London’s stock markets opened higher on Wednesday, with the FTSE 100 up 0.5% in early trading. Yet beneath the initial gains, warning signs are emerging for the real economy — particularly for commodities traders. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is under pressure to implement “moderate but sustained” tax rises to address a projected £41.2 billion shortfall under her fiscal stability rule. While the National Institute of Economic & Social Research has lifted its 2025 growth forecast to 1.3%, it warns of a “deteriorating” fiscal position. For physical traders such as Gapuma Group, the risks are clear. Fiscal tightening could slow demand for construction materials, chemicals, and energy products. However, the UK’s record pace of renewable energy installations signals longer-term growth in demand for critical minerals and battery components. Political risk is adding to market tension. The upcoming meeting between US President Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Whitcroft, and Russian officials — scheduled just days before a ceasefire deadline in Ukraine — is fuelling uncertainty in energy markets and raising concerns over global shipping routes. Meanwhile, rising US Treasury yields point to tighter credit conditions, a key challenge for traders reliant on trade finance and freight hedging. At Gapuma, we continue to navigate these intersecting pressures, maintaining resilience in our supply chain while delivering value across global markets. SEO Meta Description:Fiscal tightening, political risk, and shifting demand patterns are testing commodities traders. Gapuma monitors global pressures while adapting to long-term opportunities.
Maize Diversion – Fuel vs Food: Is India’s Ethanol Ambition Outpacing Agricultural Reality?
31st July 2025 India’s surge in maize diversion for ethanol production — from just 0.8 million tonnes in 2022–23 to a projected 12.8 million tonnes in 2024–25 — is raising urgent questions across agriculture, nutrition, and trade sectors. More than a third of the nation’s maize output is now earmarked for fuel. The consequences are already evident: rising poultry feed costs, reduced food availability in rural communities, and a sharp increase in import dependency. Maize imports have soared by almost 8,000% in the same period, transforming India from a net exporter to a net importer of the grain for the first time in decades. Maize plays a dual role in India’s economy. Beyond being a biofuel feedstock, it is a staple food in many tribal regions and the cornerstone of the animal feed industry. Redirecting such a large share of output to ethanol, encouraged by pricing incentives and blending mandates, risks eroding food security and distorting crop priorities. Industry experts and policymakers are calling for a recalibration: ethanol expansion should be based on surplus production and sustainable sourcing, ensuring India’s energy ambitions do not compromise agricultural resilience. SEO Meta Description:India’s rapid maize diversion to ethanol risks higher feed costs, reduced food supply, and soaring imports. Experts urge balancing energy targets with agricultural stability.
Reeves vs Bailey Revolut Row
Deeper Regulatory Crossroads for the City 30th July 2025 Tensions have surfaced between Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey after reports that Bailey blocked a proposed three-way meeting involving Revolut, the Treasury, and the Prudential Regulation Authority. The Chancellor had sought to accelerate approval of Revolut’s full UK banking licence — a move seen as pivotal for the fintech’s ambitions and potentially a boost to the City’s competitiveness in the post-Brexit era. Bailey, however, reportedly cancelled the talks, citing the need to protect the Bank’s independence from political influence. This dispute unfolds as Reeves champions regulatory reform to unlock growth, warning that the current regime “still acts as a boot on the neck of businesses.” Bailey countered: “We cannot compromise on basic financial stability.” The stakes extend far beyond the Square Mile. Any shift in regulatory posture could influence the wider capital flow ecosystem, shaping everything from commodities trading infrastructure to digital finance innovation. A more accommodating framework could encourage growth in areas such as risk management and trade finance instruments. Yet excessive loosening could undermine confidence, compliance, and the systemic integrity on which global commodities players depend for hedging, liquidity, and settlement. Revolut, valued at $45 billion, continues to operate under a restricted UK licence while awaiting full authorisation. Frustrated with the pace of approval, the company has hinted at a possible US listing. The outcome of this standoff could redefine London’s appeal not only for fintech — but also for the future of commodities trading. SEO Meta Description:A clash between Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey over Revolut’s banking licence spotlights a regulatory divide that could shape London’s fintech and commodities trading future.
Natural Gas Prices Hold Crucial Support as Global Markets Diverge
29th July 2025 Natural gas prices are finely balanced across major benchmarks, with futures in both India and the United States hovering near key support levels. Though shaped by distinct market forces, contracts on India’s Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) and the Henry Hub in the U.S. are showing parallel signs that point to an imminent breakout—or breakdown. On the MCX, natural gas futures have dropped sharply from a mid-June high of $4.33/mmBtu, sliding almost 24% to a late-July low of $3.26/mmBtu. Prices have since settled into a narrow range between $3.23 and $3.33/mmBtu, with technical indicators highlighting $3.11/mmBtu as a decisive support zone. A sustained hold could push prices towards $3.46, and possibly $3.61/mmBtu. A breach, however, risks triggering a deeper correction. Across the Atlantic, the Henry Hub benchmark is trading more firmly. On 29 July 2025, it closed at around $3.16–$3.19/mmBtu—up nearly 3% on the day—after an intraday range of $3.10 to $3.19. Analysts link this rise to revised weather forecasts predicting cooler conditions, likely to reduce gas-fired power demand, alongside resilient output from U.S. producers. The contrast is clear. Indian prices remain bound by technical resistance and speculative selling, while U.S. prices are buoyed by shifting fundamentals. Yet both markets are moving within a tight band of uncertainty, with near-term direction hinging on whether support levels endure. For traders, portfolio managers, and market analysts, this is a time to watch closely. Natural gas is often an early signal for industrial activity and seasonal demand shifts. The present lull may be short-lived—and the next move could set the tone for August. SEO Meta Description:Global natural gas prices at MCX and Henry Hub hover near key support levels. Market divergence suggests a potential breakout—or breakdown—in August.
Gapuma Group Named Chevron Base Oil Distributor in Nigeria
PRESS STATEMENT Release: 11 AUG 2025 London, UK — Gapuma Group is proud to announce its appointment by Chevron Products Company, a division of Chevron U.S.A. Inc., as the official distributor of Chevron premium base oils in Nigeria, effective from August 2025. Chevron’s decision to partner with Gapuma reflects the Group’s strong in-region expertise, longstanding commercial presence, and commitment to delivering technical and logistical excellence in the Nigerian lubricants market. Nigeria, Africa’s third-largest lubricants market, is undergoing a significant shift towards higher quality formulations. This agreement enables Gapuma to introduce Chevron’s premium Group II/II+ base oils to local formulators—providing enhanced supply reliability and supporting the industry’s transition to more advanced, efficient lubricants. “We are honoured to be entrusted with representing Chevron’s premium base oils in such a pivotal market,” said Stephen Harris, Group Director of Operations, Gapuma. “Chevron is globally recognised for its high-performance base oils and commitment to technical collaboration. Together, we can support Nigerian lubricant blenders in meeting rising API, ACEA, and OEM standards with confidence and clarity.” With this agreement, Gapuma strengthens its role as a trusted bridge between global producers and African markets, while helping customers optimise formulations and reduce complexity in an evolving regulatory landscape. About Gapuma Group Gapuma Group is a UK-headquartered multinational trading and logistics company with over 26 years of experience supplying critical commodities, technologies, and materials across emerging markets. With a network that spans Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and sub-Saharan Africa, Gapuma has built a strong reputation for delivering integrated supply chain solutions tailored to the needs of both public and private sector clients. Incorporated in 1999, Gapuma began as a niche supplier and has since grown into a global partner in trade, procurement, and distribution, particularly across energy, infrastructure, and industrial sectors. The company’s operations are underpinned by a deep understanding of regional markets, a robust compliance framework, and long-standing relationships with manufacturers and end-users. Gapuma’s in-country presence in several African markets enables the Group to provide agile logistics support, technical expertise, and local insight—ensuring timely, reliable, and cost-effective delivery of goods and services. With warehousing and distribution capabilities aligned to global standards, Gapuma continues to expand its footprint across the continent, including recent investments in value-added industrial supply chains. Guided by a commitment to quality, integrity, and innovation, Gapuma’s mission is to bridge global supply with local demand, enabling clients to meet evolving technical, environmental, and commercial challenges. The Group’s ongoing focus on sustainability, regional employment, and capacity building further reflects its role as a responsible and forward-thinking trade partner. Media Contact: Shahab Mossavat Communications’ Advisor shahab@gapuma.com
London: The New Crossroads of Trade
A Frozen Bridge for U.S.-China Relations A Welcoming Embrace for India 24th July 2025 As two tectonic shifts in global trade diplomacy unfold in London, the city once again finds itself a crucible for competing visions of globalisation. On one side, a faltering relationship between the United States and China teeters on the edge of renewed hostility, even as both parties prepare for a new round of negotiations. On the other, the arrival of India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi marks the culmination of an ambitious UK-India trade pact, one being hailed as a milestone for post-Brexit Britain. These developments — playing out simultaneously in the same city — offer a revealing snapshot of the state of international trade, diplomacy, and strategic alignment in 2025. A Frozen Bridge for U.S.-China Relations Tensions between the U.S. and China remain acute. Despite a cordial front and public statements calling for “mutual respect” and “win-win cooperation”, trade between the two economic giants has stalled in key sectors. U.S. exports of crude oil, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and coal to China hit zero last month — a stark indicator of deepening friction. According to Chinese customs data, energy imports from the U.S. began collapsing in March when Beijing imposed retaliatory tariffs of 10–15% in response to American pressure. Washington’s rhetoric has veered between conciliation and brinkmanship. Treasury officials have suggested the relationship is “in a good place”, yet President Trump has issued an ultimatum: reach a deal by 12 August or face even steeper tariffs. With energy trade halted and broader economic trust eroded, negotiations now risk becoming performative rather than productive. Warm Welcome for India In stark contrast, Narendra Modi’s visit to London signals a rare bright spot in international trade. The UK-India trade deal, finalised this week, marks the most significant bilateral agreement for Britain since its departure from the European Union. It promises liberalised trade across goods, digital services, pharmaceuticals, and the movement of skilled labour. Symbolically and strategically, this partnership demonstrates both countries’ pivot away from traditional Atlantic alignments and towards a multipolar future. For India, this is part of a broader push to assert itself as a manufacturing and technological alternative to China. For the UK, the deal is a concrete step in delivering on the promise of “Global Britain” and diversifying supply chains beyond the EU and China. Diplomacy in a Fragmented World The juxtaposition of these two developments in London underscores the shifting tides in global diplomacy. Whereas Cold War-era alignments once dominated the international order, the 21st century is increasingly shaped by regional partnerships, transactional diplomacy, and contested norms of engagement. The China-U.S. standoff reflects a breakdown of trust between the two largest economies, with energy trade — a pillar of past cooperation — now weaponised. Meanwhile, India’s alignment with the UK symbolises a constructive alternative: partnerships built on shared democratic values, strategic interests, and mutual economic gain. Implications for Globalism and Security These contrasting stories also point to diverging models of globalisation. One is increasingly fragmented, shaped by tariffs, coercion, and rivalry. The other is cautiously optimistic, rooted in bilateralism and cooperation among emerging and middle powers. Yet the implications go beyond trade flows. A prolonged breakdown between China and the U.S. risks fuelling economic decoupling, reshaping energy markets, and accelerating the formation of parallel financial systems. Meanwhile, strengthened ties between countries like India and the UK could create new centres of influence, challenging traditional global institutions. London, long a symbol of open markets and internationalism, now hosts both a high-stakes power play and a hopeful handshake. The outcomes of these two engagements will reverberate well beyond the city — shaping not only trade balances, but the future of global diplomacy itself.
Tariffs, Supply Constraints, and Falling Crop Prices Put U.S. Fertiliser Market Under Strain
23rd July 2025 A detailed analysis by Argus Media, supported by reporting from sector commentators Calder Jett, Sneha Kumar, Chris Mullins, and Taylor Zavala, highlights the growing pressures on the U.S. fertiliser market as the autumn application season approaches. Insights shared during the recent Southwestern Fertilizer Conference in Nashville have drawn attention to several critical challenges currently affecting the market: 🔻 The Argus Fertilizer Affordability Index has dropped sharply to 0.71 — significantly below the benchmark of 1, and its lowest level since April 2022.🚢 A 10% import tariff introduced in April is tightening offshore supply at a time when the U.S. market is heavily reliant on imports to satisfy domestic demand.🌽 Expectations of a bumper corn crop are putting further strain on inventories while simultaneously driving down corn futures, reducing affordability for growers.🛑 Many wholesalers and retailers are opting to delay their autumn fertiliser purchases to avoid high upfront costs and storage challenges — with phosphates and potash particularly affected. The outlook remains uncertain. By 1 August, additional and potentially higher duties may be imposed on fertiliser imports from Algeria, the EU, Tunisia, Brunei, and Indonesia — countries which together accounted for more than 13% of U.S. fertiliser imports last year. This added layer of complexity is especially significant in the nitrogen segment, where supplies remain limited due to low global inventories and continuing geopolitical disruptions. With coverage also featured in World Fertilizer Magazine, this story is expected to remain a major talking point across the industry in the coming weeks.
Strengthening Ties in West Africa: A Strategic Visit to Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana
22nd July 2025 Gapuma Group Managing Director, Jack Bardakjian, recently completed a high-level visit to two of our key West African markets — Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana — accompanied by our Senior Biofuels Trader, Rafael Fraletti. The visit reaffirmed our long-standing commitment to building sustainable partnerships, supporting local infrastructure, and reinforcing operational excellence in the region. As our global portfolio evolves in line with the energy transition, West Africa is playing an increasingly vital role in our biofuels and logistics strategy. With Rafael based in Gapuma’s Swiss Office — the nerve centre of our biofuels operation — this mission combined executive leadership with commercial expertise on the ground. From strategic meetings with clients to warehouse visits in Abidjan and Accra, the trip served to deepen relationships, assess new opportunities, and ensure our growth remains aligned with local realities and regional ambitions. These in-person engagements also reflect Gapuma’s operational philosophy: that reliability in global supply chains is built not just on trade routes and systems, but on trust, presence, and long-term commitment. By maintaining close contact with partners across West Africa, we continue to enhance the resilience of our operations — from Geneva to Ghana, and every step in between. As the world shifts toward cleaner, more responsible energy sources, Gapuma remains at the forefront of ethical trading and sustainable innovation. This visit marks another meaningful milestone in our shared journey toward a smarter, more inclusive global energy future.
World Karate Championships End in Triumph
17th July 2025 The World Karate Championships drew to a close on Sunday in Malmö – and Gapuma was proud to stand behind some of England’s most promising young fighters. Held at the spectacular Malmo Arena, the 13th WUKF World Karate Championships welcomed nearly 4,000 athletes from 33 nations. Among them were members of the Dokan England and Ichiban Leeds teams – many making their international debuts – proudly supported by Gapuma. From day one, England’s athletes impressed. Medals in kata came from Salma, Ariz, Layjha, Kylie and Eleisha, securing an early haul of four silver and one bronze. Kumite and kobudo followed, with powerful showings by Elijah, Ahmed and Lewis – the latter placing fourth and fifth in a highly competitive kobudo division. The highlight? A bronze medal win in the 16–17 boys team kumite, with Adel sealing the victory in dramatic style through six unanswered points and a match-winning ippon. A huge thank you to Henry Greef, Gapuma’s South Africa Country Manager, who not only represented us on the ground in Malmö but also introduced us to the team and initiated the sponsorship. His energy, initiative and belief in the athletes made this partnership possible. Well done to every athlete, coach and supporter – Gapuma is honoured to be part of your journey.