UK-listed shipbroking group Clarksons has acquired the broking business of Serpac International, securing a foothold in Peru and strengthening its presence along South America's Pacific coast. The London-headquartered firm said the deal extends its reach in a market it views as increasingly important amid rising trade flows between South America and Asia.
Founded in Lima, Serpac brings more than 50 years of local shipping experience. Its six-person team, focused mainly on dry bulk, will join Clarksons under managing director Andrew Hardy. 'Joining Clarksons is a tremendous opportunity for our clients and our team,' Hardy said, citing access to deeper insight, broader services and global resources.
Clarksons CEO Andi Case described the acquisition as another important step in the firm's regional strategy. The deal is expected to strengthen coverage along the west coast of South America, particularly in Peru and Chile, where copper, fishmeal and mineral exports drive sustained demand for bulk shipping. The Pacific coast has become a major loading region for cargo bound for China and East Asia.
The transaction aligns with Clarksons' broader strategy of expanding its broking, advisory and research capabilities across Asia-Pacific and the Americas. Following the Serpac integration, the firm aims to combine local market knowledge with its global network across Latin American dry bulk operations.
Rising export volumes along the Pacific seaboard, coupled with drought-driven Panama Canal transit constraints and Asia-led freight rate volatility, are increasing demand for shipbroking services. Industry analysts say Clarksons' move underscores Latin America's growing strategic weight within the global broking landscape.
Key Takeaways:
1. Clarksons has acquired the broking business of Lima-based Serpac International.
2. The deal brings more than 50 years of local Peruvian shipping experience and a regional Pacific coast hub.
3. Serpac's six-person dry bulk-focused team will operate under Clarksons led by Andrew Hardy.
4. The acquisition deepens Clarksons' coverage of Asia-Latin America commodity flows.
5. Copper and mineral exports from Peru and Chile remain the primary drivers of Pacific coast bulk shipping demand.
