Public sector shipbuilder Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has secured orders to build more than 40 vessels for clients in the US, Germany, Norway and other countries, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has announced.
The minister said the large volume of orders from international clients and partners reflected growing global recognition of the quality and capabilities of India's shipbuilding industry.
Sonowal disclosed the development at a press conference in New Delhi. Senior ministry officials also revealed that several Russian companies had expressed interest in collaborating with Indian shipyards on shipbuilding projects.
India is strengthening its maritime partnerships with several countries as part of efforts to expand port infrastructure, shipbuilding and environmentally sustainable shipping.
During the third Sagarmanthan – The Ocean Dialogue summit, India held bilateral discussions with ministers and representatives from Saudi Arabia, Belgium, Bhutan and Myanmar.
During the discussions, Myanmar's minister highlighted the successful progress of coastal shipping operations in the country and the satisfactory functioning of Sittwe Port.
Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) expressed interest in investing in major Indian port projects, including Vadhavan Port and Galathea Bay, as well as the Maritime Development Fund (MDF).
Belgium also conveyed its willingness to collaborate with India in promoting the shipbuilding industry.
In another significant development, VO Chidambaranar Port signed a memorandum of understanding with the Port of Antwerp to promote green shipping and strengthen green fuel capabilities.
The international orders secured by Kochi-based Cochin Shipyard are expected to provide fresh momentum to Keralam's industrial and employment sectors.
As one of India's leading maritime companies, Cochin Shipyard plays an important role in the country's shipbuilding and ship-repair industry.
The new contracts are expected to strengthen the company's international reputation while opening up additional business opportunities for allied industries and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Keralam.
The potential benefits could extend to local engineering firms, equipment manufacturers, component suppliers and other businesses associated with shipbuilding activities.
India's ports and inland waterways sectors have recorded significant expansion over the past 12 years, supported by investments in infrastructure and maritime connectivity.
According to figures highlighted by the ministry, the country's port capacity has increased from 1,561 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 2,817 MTPA.
Cargo handled at Indian ports has risen from 1,052 million tonnes to 1,668 million tonnes during the period.
Inland cargo transportation has witnessed an even sharper increase, climbing from 29 million tonnes to 218 million tonnes.
Operational efficiency has also improved, with the average turnaround time for container vessels declining from 35 hours to 23 hours.
These improvements reflect the government's efforts to modernise port infrastructure, strengthen logistics networks and increase the use of inland waterways for cargo transportation.
The latest international orders come as India seeks to strengthen its position in the global shipbuilding industry through expanded manufacturing capabilities and greater international cooperation.
