Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, highlighted the broader strategic context, stating, “India and France share a deep and trusted partnership across defence, space, clean energy, and Indo-Pacific maritime security. The recent visit of French President H.E. Emmanuel Macron reflects the maturity of these ties. Under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership, India is charting a roadmap to become a leading maritime nation, and this collaboration with CMA CGM extends that vision into practice.”
The deal demonstrates growing confidence among global maritime leaders in India’s shipbuilding sector and signals the country’s rising stature as a sustainable maritime hub.
From Vision to Reality
Minister of State Shri Shantanu Thakur noted that the project stems from high-level bilateral engagements. During Prime Minister Modi’s visit to CMA CGM headquarters in France on 12 February 2025, discussions on flagging vessels in India and local shipbuilding led to this concrete outcome. “Today’s agreement is the result of shared vision and strategic dialogue,” he remarked.
Following detailed discussions to finalise vessel specifications, CSL executed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with CMA CGM, leading to the formal contract. Each of the six feeder vessels will have a 1,700 TEU capacity and operate on LNG, reinforcing India’s focus on eco-friendly maritime solutions and technological innovation.
Boosting India’s Maritime Ecosystem
The agreement marks a significant step in India’s maritime reforms and aligns with the government’s policy framework for the development of ports, shipping, and green logistics. By engaging international partners and promoting indigenous shipbuilding, India is building a robust, sustainable, and globally competitive maritime ecosystem.
This collaboration also strengthens India-France maritime ties and showcases the country’s ability to meet international standards in eco-friendly shipbuilding while generating domestic employment and fostering industrial growth.