Clarification on Privatization Plans for Shipping and Ports in India

The Indian government has clarified that there are no current discussions on privatizing shipping and ports. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways stated this in response to speculation about possible privatization plans. They emphasized that not all twelve major ports wholly owned by the central government have been privatized, but the government is open to private sector participation through public-private partnerships (PPPs).

These partnerships allow private companies to participate in specific projects, berths, and terminals through concession agreements, which are concluded for a specific period of time and involve a tendering process. Despite the global trend towards privatization and economic changes, the Indian government is maintaining a cautious approach, particularly given the transformative changes currently being witnessed in the shipping and port sectors around the world.

While the privatization of Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) has been delayed, it is not off the table. The government’s commitment to PPPs demonstrates its strategy to mobilize private investment while maintaining control of critical infrastructure assets, and there are hints that disinvestment could accelerate post-election.

Source .