India’s $1 Trillion Maritime Roadmap
India’s maritime sector is emerging as a global investment hub, offering opportunities worth nearly $1 trillion across ports, logistics, and sustainable shipping. Speaking at a high-level roundtable ahead of India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025, the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways outlined India’s vision to build a future-ready, resilient, and eco-friendly maritime ecosystem.
Mega Infrastructure Projects Driving Growth
India is pushing forward with transformative projects such as:
- Vadhavan Port
- Galathea Bay Transshipment Port
- Tuna Tekra Terminal
These, along with investments in green hydrogen hubs, LNG bunkering, shipbuilding, ship recycling, and maritime industrial parks, form the backbone of the country’s maritime expansion strategy.
Opportunities for Global Collaboration
The investment roadmap emphasizes collaboration in areas such as:
- Cargo and port terminal operations
- Multi-modal transport and maritime services
- Shipbuilding, recycling, and ship repairs
- Green hydrogen-powered and low-emission vessels
- Digitalization in maritime logistics for efficiency and transparency
Global investors were also urged to leverage IFSC-GIFT City as a financing hub for maritime innovation and growth.
Blue Economy & Sustainable Future
Delegates stressed the importance of the blue economy, highlighting the need for sustainable growth, responsible ocean resource management, and livelihood opportunities for coastal communities. A shift towards green shipping and hydrogen-based fuel adoption was also seen as crucial for the future.
Legal Reforms Boosting Investor Confidence
Recent government reforms have strengthened India’s maritime framework with five new legislations:
- Bills of Lading Act
- Carriage of Goods by Sea Act
- Merchant Shipping Act
- Coastal Shipping Act
- Indian Ports Act
These new laws replace outdated colonial-era rules and align India with global best practices, making the sector more attractive to international investors.
India Maritime Week 2025 – A Global Platform
Scheduled for October 27–31, 2025 in Mumbai, IMW will bring together global policymakers, investors, and industry leaders. The event will serve as a platform to convert ideas into actionable projects and partnerships.
India aims to position itself not only as a logistics powerhouse, but also as a leader in sustainable and inclusive maritime development.
