Andhra Pradesh is showcasing its potential as a shipbuilding investment destination at the India Business Roundtable during SMM Hamburg. Kona Sasidhar, Secretary for Infrastructure and Investment, emphasizes the state’s strategic coastal location, strong industrial base, and favorable ease-of-doing-business credentials to attract global shipowners and manufacturers.
Covering approximately 160,000 square kilometers with a population of 53 million, Andhra Pradesh has a robust GDP of $214 billion and has consistently topped India’s ease of doing business rankings for three years, attracting 25% of the country’s foreign direct investment. The state operates six ports along a 1,053-kilometer coastline, with plans to expand capacity significantly while developing multiple shipbuilding and repair sites.
Sasidhar identifies key locations for shipbuilding, including the Dugarajapatnam mega shipbuilding cluster, along with Kakinada and Machilipatnam, which are set for imminent operational readiness. The state supports this with a vibrant industrial ecosystem, including major upcoming projects in steel, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy.
Additionally, Andhra Pradesh is addressing workforce needs through customized training programs from international partners. To encourage investment, the state offers incentives like tax breaks and streamlined approvals, inviting potential investors to engage in preliminary discussions soon.
