India’s maritime sector is moving into a new era of expansion and global relevance. In a significant development, MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company—one of the largest global shipping companies—has confirmed its commitment to register and operate 12 of its vessels as Indian flag vessels. This announcement followed discussions during the Global Maritime CEO Roundtable held in Mumbai as part of India Maritime Week 2025.
The announcement was made by MSC CEO Soren Toft, who stated that MSC is deepening its long-term strategic partnership with India. He highlighted that the India maritime sector is growing strongly across shipping, ports, and logistics, and MSC intends to support this growth through concrete investment and operational integration. This decision places India more prominently on the world maritime map, reinforcing the country’s position as a rising global maritime hub.
Growing Confidence from Global Shipping Companies
MSC is not the only major player reinforcing its commitment to the India maritime sector. Recently, A.P. Moller – Maersk also announced a substantial development plan. Maersk is set to invest $2 billion in expanding APM Terminals Pipavav, in collaboration with the Gujarat Maritime Board. Additionally, the company has flagged two of its vessels, Maersk Vigo and Maersk Vilnius, as Indian flag vessels. This signifies that global shipping companies are recognizing India not just as a major cargo market, but also as a maritime base worth long-term investment.
Similarly, DP World has pledged $5 billion toward the enhancement of maritime infrastructure in India. DP World has already invested $3 billion over the past three decades, and its renewed commitment shows strong confidence in India’s port development and logistics environment. These efforts contribute toward improving efficiency, capacity, and international competitiveness across Indian ports.
India’s Shipbuilding Boost Gains Momentum
A notable milestone in shipbuilding emerged when CMA CGM signed a letter of intent with Cochin Shipyard Limited. The agreement involves building six dual-fuel LNG containerships in India. These vessels will be the first LNG-powered ships constructed for a major international shipping line in an Indian shipyard. The ships will also sail as Indian flag vessels, with delivery planned between 2029 and 2031.
This is a breakthrough for the India maritime sector, as it enhances India’s capabilities in advanced vessel manufacturing. It also strengthens self-reliance in maritime infrastructure, aligning with the broader goal of increasing the national fleet under the Indian registry. This indicates growing technical expertise and capacity within Indian shipyards, enabling them to take on more sophisticated construction projects in the future.
Government Initiatives Supporting Maritime Growth
The government has also introduced significant policies to support the Maritime India Vision 2030 framework. One of the key steps is the creation of a maritime development fund worth 250 billion rupees (approximately $2.9 billion). Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman confirmed that 49% of the funding will come from the government, while the remaining portion will be contributed by ports and private stakeholders. This fund is expected to support shipbuilding, ship repair, and future capacity expansion.
Maritime India Vision 2030 outlines more than 150 strategic initiatives aimed at modernizing ports, improving connectivity, expanding coastal shipping, and increasing the number of Indian flag vessels. The plan includes new port development, modern cargo handling systems, inland waterway expansion, and digital optimization of port operations. Nearly 95% of India’s trade by volume and 70% by value moves through the maritime route, making investment in maritime infrastructure essential.
Why Reflagging Matters for India
The India maritime sector has grown significantly in cargo volume, especially in energy imports and refined petroleum product exports. However, the number of Indian flag vessels has not grown at the same pace. This means much of India’s own trade is carried by foreign-registered vessels. Increasing the share of domestically flagged ships improves strategic autonomy, economic benefits, job creation, and maritime security.
When global shipping companies such as MSC and Maersk reflag their vessels under the Indian registry, the country gains advantages such as:
- Higher maritime employment for Indian seafarers
- Increased revenue from port and flag administration services
- Strengthened national presence in international shipping lanes
- Greater resilience in supply chains
The move also supports domestic shipping companies, who can collaborate more effectively with international partners.
Also read: DP World & Cochin Port Sign MoU to Boost Kerala’s Maritime Growth
Looking Ahead
The combined impact of MSC’s commitment, Maersk’s investments, DP World’s long-term funding, and CMA CGM’s shipbuilding initiative represents a powerful vote of confidence in the India maritime sector. These steps reinforce the government’s strategic maritime vision and its long-term plan to expand capacity, sustainability, and competitiveness.
As Maritime India Vision 2030 continues to guide expansion, the registration of more Indian flag vessels will enhance India’s maritime strength globally. The strengthening of maritime infrastructure, shipbuilding, port expansion, and deeper collaboration with global shipping companies will accelerate growth for decades to come.
India is not only emerging as a major maritime trade nation, but also as a reliable logistics and shipping partner for the world.
Source : gcaptain.com
