During Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi’s visit to the U.S. from November 12-17, India and the United States will review their robust defense partnership. Discussions will focus on enhancing maritime cooperation, operational linkages, and upcoming exercises like Milan. The visit underscores the commitment to a free Indo-Pacific amid growing regional military activity.
At the G7 meeting in Canada, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar presented a vision for maritime security, emphasizing the Indo-Pacific region’s importance. He advocated for port-led development and international cooperation, addressing challenges like piracy and illegal fishing. Jaishankar affirmed India’s commitment to a rules-based maritime order under UNCLOS.
In a policy shift, the Indian government has established new deep-sea fishing regulations within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Prioritizing local fishermen and banning foreign vessels, the guidelines aim to enhance opportunities in tuna fishing while emphasizing sustainable practices and technological advancements in the marine fisheries sector. Effective November 4.
The arrival of the MV Capetan Vassilis II at Deendayal Port marks a transformative moment for India’s maritime logistics. As the first Premium Products Vessel, it shifts agri-input transport from traditional containers to bulk cargo, enhancing supply chain efficiency, reducing turnaround times, and ultimately improving product availability for farmers nationwide.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced a proposed bilateral free trade agreement between India and New Zealand, aimed at enhancing trade and investment. Speaking alongside New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, he highlighted mutual benefits, emphasizing collaboration in sectors like maritime, aerospace, and defense, as well as education and tourism.
MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company plans to register a fleet of vessels under the Indian flag, joining CMA CGM and Maersk in supporting India’s maritime growth. CEO Soren Toft announced the deployment of 12 vessels, emphasizing India’s potential in shipping, ports, and logistics. The initiative reflects MSC’s commitment to India’s maritime development.
Sweden is committed to helping India develop a sustainable industrial framework in line with the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). State Secretary Sara Modig emphasized Sweden’s readiness to assist India’s transition to low-carbon manufacturing, highlighting its expertise in technology transfer, particularly for the rapidly growing steel industry.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) and Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. (SCI) have signed a memorandum to collaborate in the tugboat sector, enhancing India’s port operations and promoting eco-friendly maritime services. This partnership will leverage MOL’s expertise in safety and alternative fuel technologies to support India’s Green Tug Transition Program.
Sri Lanka’s Minister of Ports, Anura Karunathilaka, visited Mumbai for the India Maritime Week 2025, focusing on maritime technology and regional collaboration. Engaging with India’s Minister of Ports, Sarbananda Sonowal, and other international leaders, he aimed to enhance port modernization and sustainable development, reinforcing the partnership between India and Sri Lanka.
The Centre of Excellence in Maritime and Shipbuilding, Drydocks World, and Cochin Shipyard Limited have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop a skilled maritime workforce in India. This initiative, formalized during India Maritime Week 2025, aims to position India as a global leader in shipbuilding and repair training.
A.P. Moller – Maersk has revealed ambitious plans at India Maritime Week 2025 to boost India’s maritime sector, including a $2 billion investment in port expansion with APM Terminals Pipavav. New initiatives will enhance local partnerships, improve port infrastructure, and foster maritime talent development, reinforcing Maersk’s commitment to India’s economic growth.
India hosted the inaugural Quad Ports of the Future Conference in Mumbai, bringing together 120 delegates from 24 Indo-Pacific nations. Focused on resilient port development, discussions emphasized infrastructure, cybersecurity, and sustainability. Prime Minister Modi highlighted India’s strategic geography and invited global investors, reaffirming its commitment to a digitally advanced maritime ecosystem.
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian government is significantly enhancing the maritime economy by increasing port capacity and advancing shipbuilding. During India Maritime Week, over 600 MOUs worth more than Rs 12 lakh crore were signed, focusing on sustainable shipping and technology, aiming to create jobs and boost the sector.
DP World has committed an additional $5 billion to enhance India’s integrated supply chain, building on previous investments. This funding will improve infrastructure and multimodal connectivity, boosting India’s global competitiveness. Announced during India Maritime Week 2025, the initiative aims for sustainable growth through strategic partnerships and advanced freight mobility solutions.
India’s maritime sector is set for a transformative leap, with an anticipated ₹8 trillion investment and the creation of 1.5 crore jobs by 2047, as highlighted by Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri during India Maritime Week 2025. This robust industry is crucial for boosting trade and achieving the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
