The Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA) is dedicated to fostering a robust maritime ecosystem focused on safety, efficiency, and regulatory excellence. With over 8,400 registered vessels and 14,000 maritime companies, Dubai’s sector attracts a diverse workforce and boasts extensive infrastructure, reinforcing its status as a premier global maritime hub.
Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) recently laid the keel for a second 60-tonne bollard pull tug for the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA). During the ceremony, VPA chairperson Jasmeet Singh Bindra noted that these vessels would enhance port operations significantly. HSL’s commitment to the project reflects a longstanding partnership with VPA.
Andhra Pradesh is positioning itself as a prime shipbuilding investment destination at the India Business Roundtable during SMM Hamburg. Secretary Kona Sasidhar highlights the state’s strategic coastal location, strong industrial base, and favorable business climate to attract global shipowners and manufacturers, emphasizing a robust infrastructure and supportive policies for investors.
The Sri Lanka Ports Authority reported that the Port of Colombo is now one of the fastest-growing container hubs, handling 4.44 million TEUs in the first half of 2026. This marks an 11.9% increase, elevating its global ranking from 26th to 20th, underscoring its pivotal role in international shipping.
GAIL (India) Limited, the Deendayal Port Authority, and DNV have formed a Tripartite Cooperation Agreement to establish an LNG bunkering facility at Kandla Port. This collaboration combines LNG expertise, strategic port infrastructure, and maritime safety knowledge, significantly enhancing LNG capabilities and promoting cleaner marine fuels in line with India’s sustainability goals.
MacGregor has been selected to deliver comprehensive cargo handling solutions for six LNG-powered containerships under construction at Cochin Shipyard for CMA CGM. Scheduled for delivery from 2029 to 2031, this project enhances India’s role in sustainable shipping, marking a significant milestone for the Indian maritime industry and global trade.
Engineers India Ltd (EIL) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) to enhance India’s maritime infrastructure. This partnership will leverage EIL’s expertise in engineering and project management to support the DGMA in planning and executing various maritime projects, promoting sustainability and operational efficiency.
Kerala’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Karan Adani inaugurated the second phase of the Vizhinjam Port expansion, a ₹16,000 crore project aimed at enhancing maritime capacity. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal attended, highlighting bipartisan support. Vizhinjam, already India’s fastest port to process one million TEUs, aspires to become a leading transshipment hub.
India’s maritime infrastructure has transformed significantly over the years, evolving from limited capacity to a national priority. With 12 major and over 200 non-major ports, the focus has shifted to enhancing trade and logistics. Additionally, ports now play a crucial role in national security, supporting both civilian and defense operations.
Morocco plans to unveil a new deepwater port on the Mediterranean by next year and another on the Atlantic by 2028, emulating the success of Tanger Med. Nador West Med will feature an LNG terminal and expansive industrial zones, while Dakhla aims to support heavy industries and green hydrogen production.
Cochin Port, Kerala’s second-largest port, is poised for a ₹10,000 crore upgrade, enhancing both the port and Cochin Shipyard. Key investments include ₹1,500 crore for the Vallarpadam Transhipment Terminal and ₹500 crore for an LNG bunkering facility, aiming to boost container handling and overall maritime capabilities in Kochi.
The Dredging Corporation of India Limited (DCIL) has signed 22 MoUs worth Rs 176.45 billion during the India Maritime Week 2025. Collaborating with major ports and organizations, these agreements focus on dredging operations over the next five years, enhancing India’s maritime capabilities and aligning with the government’s Maritime India Vision 2030.
Researchers at the University of Southern Queensland are advancing sustainable maritime infrastructure to withstand Queensland’s harsh coastal conditions and severe weather. Co-lead Professor Allan Manalo emphasizes the urgent need to replace aging infrastructure. Collaborating with Wagners Composite Fibre Technologies, they are testing high-performance composites to enhance durability and promote low-carbon construction methods.
India’s maritime sector stands at a crucial juncture, with over 11,000 kilometers of coastline and vital port infrastructure. Despite handling 95% of trade by volume through maritime channels, its global shipping tonnage share remains under 2%. To modernize and expand, an investment of USD 885-940 billion is essential by 2047.
Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), a prominent defence public sector company in Visakhapatnam for 85 years, plans to establish its first satellite shipyard in Andhra Pradesh. Potential locations include Mulapeta and Kakinada port. This expansion aims to enhance India’s maritime infrastructure and support HSL’s transition towards profitable defence and commercial ventures.
