India, CMA CGM Strengthen Maritime Ties in France
India is growing its global shipping network. On 12th June 2025, Shri T.K. Ramachandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, visited CMA CGM’s headquarters in Marseille, France. The visit followed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tour to France in February 2025, where maritime cooperation was a key focus.
Five Focus Areas for Maritime Growth
In Marseille, the Secretary held talks with CMA CGM’s top team. CMA CGM is a world leader in shipping and logistics. The company shared its India strategy, which is built around five main goals:
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Grow Indian-flagged ships
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Build ships in India
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Improve inland logistics
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Invest in maritime industry
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Support innovation in ports and shipping
New Ships and Investments
CMA CGM has already taken big steps under this strategy:
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It launched two India-flagged ships — CC VITORIA and CC Manaus
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It set up a new Indian shipping company at GIFT City, Gujarat
The company is also in talks with Indian shipyards. It wants to build LNG-powered container ships that are cleaner and better for the environment.
Ports and Infrastructure Projects
CMA CGM is investing heavily in India’s port network:
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A $200 million expansion is happening at the Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal
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CMA CGM is also taking part in building the new Vadhavan Port
These projects will help boost India’s port capacity and speed up cargo handling.
Focus on Sustainability
The company is also looking at India’s ship recycling industry, especially in Alang, Gujarat. It wants to recycle ships responsibly and source green steel and containers from India.
These steps align with global goals for climate-friendly shipping and cleaner supply chains.
Digital Growth and Innovation in India
CMA CGM already has over 2,200 digital professionals working in India. Now, it plans to build R&D and innovation hubs in cities like:
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Chennai
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Mumbai
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Visakhapatnam
These hubs will support new tech in shipping and logistics.
Key Leaders at the Meeting
Several senior CMA CGM executives were part of the talks:
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Patrice Bergamini, Diplomatic Advisor to the Group CEO
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Ludovic Renou, Head of Global Shipping Network
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Atit Mahajan, Managing Director of CMA CGM India
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Other project leaders focused on India
Stronger India-Europe Trade Route
This visit helped both sides explore ways to boost trade, port infrastructure, and digital tech. It also supported the broader goal of a stronger India-Europe maritime corridor.
Conclusion: A Step Forward for India’s Blue Economy
The Marseille visit shows how India is building strong global partnerships. With projects now underway, the India-CMA CGM partnership can change how ports and shipping work in India. It will help the country grow economically, digitally, and sustainably.
