Union Shipping and Ports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal reported that India’s port cargo volumes remain stable, even after the United States imposed a 50% tariff on Indian goods. He emphasized that major Indian ports have not experienced any decline in cargo handling, crediting this resilience to robust domestic consumption and the opportunities arising from new bilateral trade agreements.
Indian ports are crucial to the country’s trade, managing nearly 85% of export-import cargo by volume and over 70% by value. Sonowal spoke at the inauguration of projects worth over ₹350 crore at V O Chidambaranar Port in Tamil Nadu, including India’s first port-based green hydrogen pilot project aimed at powering street lights and EV charging stations. The port is striving to achieve “green port” certification by year-end.
Additionally, Sonowal announced the groundwork for a green methanol bunkering facility, supporting the Coastal Green Shipping Corridor initiative between Kandla and Tuticorin. This effort is part of a broader strategy to enhance sustainable maritime operations in India. The minister concluded that these initiatives demonstrate a commitment to maintaining trade growth while navigating external challenges.
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