HD Hyundai announced a preliminary agreement with the Tamil Nadu government to establish a new shipyard, aiming to boost the local economy. Chosen for its favorable climate, Thoothukudi will host this initiative. India seeks to enhance its shipbuilding capacity under the “Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047,” partnering with South Korea for advanced technology.
Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) is expanding to the eastern seaboard by signing an MoU with Guidance Tamil Nadu. This development, formalized on September 19, 2025, underscores MDL’s commitment to establish a new shipyard, enhancing India’s maritime security and supporting national initiatives like Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Maritime India Vision 2030.
Inadequate health and safety measures at shipyards can lead to tragic outcomes. A recent incident in northeast England resulted in a worker’s death after a fall from scaffolding, prompting a £200,000 fine. The Health and Safety Executive emphasizes the need for rigorous safety protocols to prevent such accidents in the marine sector.
India’s ambitious plans to invest in its maritime industry have attracted the attention of Dutch shipbuilder Damen, who recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Square Port Shipyard to develop a shipyard in India. This partnership aims to bring Damen’s expertise and technology to the region, supporting India’s growing maritime sector and economic development.
A massive fire broke out in an Egyptian shipyard near the Suez Canal, destroying fishing boats and pleasure craft. Despite six hours of firefighting efforts, the blaze was challenging to contain due to flammable materials. No fatalities were reported, but three individuals were hospitalized. Authorities are investigating the cause and assessing the damage.
The Damen Maaskant shipyard in Stellendam is renowned for converting icebreakers into expedition yachts. Eric Moerkerk, the Managing Director, has led the shipyard to significant growth through innovative project control strategies. With revenue tripling to €100 million and the workforce doubling, the shipyard’s reputation for new vessel construction and yacht conversion continues to grow.
Insolvency proceedings have been initiated for four companies within the FSG-Nobiskrug shipyard group, with provisional administrators working on restructuring solutions. Efforts are being made to secure wages, engage with clients for ongoing projects, and explore interim financing options. The goal is to ensure the continued operation and success of the shipyards in Schleswig-Holstein.
ST Engineering has unveiled its new shipyard at 55 Gul Road in Singapore, replacing the expiring Tuas Yard. The Gul Yard, double the size of Tuas Yard, is equipped for larger projects. With AI-driven automation, digital twin technology, and 5G connectivity, the facility aims for efficiency and safety. Sustainability initiatives include electric vehicles and a clean energy transition plan.
According to Marine Link, the shortage of tonnage in major ship recycling destinations persists, with some hope for improvement by 2024. India faces challenges such as fluctuating steel prices and competition from cheap Chinese steel, impacting the struggling ship recycling sector. Meanwhile, dry bulk freight rates continue to unexpectedly thrive.
The workshop highlighted technology and practices for efficient ship repair and building, emphasizing the need for workforce capacity and talent development. Secretary Shri TK Ramchandran, IAS emphasized government commitment to growth. The workshop promoted industry collaboration and discussed the goals set in Maritime India Vision 2030. Discussion topics included infrastructure, green initiatives, and training models.
Work was suspended at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries’ Ulsan shipyard after a fatal accident killed one person and left another seriously injured. The accident occurred during a lift and repositioning of a 9,000-ton block for an offshore crude oil production platform. South Korean officials imposed a stop work order and launched an investigation.
