Global container shipping leaders MSC and Maersk are reflagging vessels to the Indian register, following France’s CMA CGM, highlighting India’s rising influence in global maritime trade. This strategic move enables operators to leverage India’s cabotage laws and strengthen coastal trade.
Earlier this year, CMA CGM registered four vessels in India post Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to its Marseille headquarters. The French carrier also announced plans to construct containerships in India, significantly advancing the country’s shipbuilding capabilities.
Maersk has reflagged the Maersk Vilnius, with the Maersk Vigo set to follow, as noted in shipping database Equasis. Meanwhile, MSC, the world’s largest container line, is anticipated to reveal its reflagging plans during the forthcoming India Maritime Week.
This trend is consistent with the Indian government’s Maritime India Vision 2030, aimed at modernizing ports, enhancing coastal and inland waterways, and attracting investment in shipbuilding and related maritime services.
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