CMA CGM welcomes its first Indian flagged vessel, CMA CGM Vitoria

By Admin

29 Apr, 2025

A Historic Milestone for CMA CGM in India

On 28th April 2025, CMA CGM marked a significant milestone by welcoming its first Indian-flagged containership, CMA CGM Vitoria, at the Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal. This momentous occasion was graced by the presence of Shantanu Thakur, Minister of State for the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways of India. The event was hosted by Atit Mahajan, General Manager of CMA CGM India, alongside dignitaries from the Directorate General of Shipping, the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), diplomats, partners, and CMA CGM India employees.

Expanding Commitment to India’s Growth

The CMA CGM Vitoria, with a total capacity of 2,592 TEU, will serve India through the Group’s BIGEX Network, ensuring weekly calls from Nhava Sheva and Mundra. The BIGEX service is one of the most comprehensive offerings that connects India directly with the Gulf and the Red Sea regions. In addition to this first local flag registration, CMA CGM plans to register three more vessels in India over the coming months, reflecting its strong and growing commitment to the Indian market.

Strategic Presence at GIFT City

CMA CGM has also achieved another milestone by becoming the first foreign shipping line to register a containerized vessel in the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) at Gujarat International Finance Tec (GIFT) City. This pioneering move positions the Group strategically within India’s evolving financial and maritime ecosystem and aligns with CMA CGM’s broader ambition to be a major contributor to the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).

Deepening Investment Across India

With over 34 years of presence in India and a workforce of 17,000 employees, CMA CGM has firmly established itself as a critical player in India's shipping and logistics sector. Through 19 weekly maritime services, the Group continues to strengthen India’s connectivity to global trade routes. Significant investments have been made in port infrastructure, notably at Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal (NSFT) and Mundra Port, reinforcing CMA CGM’s commitment to bolstering India’s maritime capabilities.

Logistics Leadership with CEVA Logistics

CMA CGM’s logistics subsidiary, CEVA Logistics, operates across 105 sites in 31 Indian cities, managing around 900,000 square meters of warehouse space. The 2023 acquisition of Stellar VCS further bolstered CEVA’s footprint, enhancing contract logistics capabilities and offering world-class, innovative solutions to Indian businesses seeking operational excellence.

Supporting India's Social and Economic Development

Highlighting its dedication beyond business, CMA CGM has actively contributed to India’s social landscape. Through the CMA CGM Foundation, the Group has supported the education of approximately 2,350 underprivileged children in Mumbai over the past three years across 10 dedicated learning centers. Additionally, CMA CGM recently inaugurated a crew management office in Mumbai to strengthen its operational base and provide more employment opportunities within India.

Driving the Future of Trade Through IMEC

As a key player in the global shipping and logistics arena, CMA CGM is poised to play a vital role in the success of the IMEC project. By combining a modern fleet adapted to alternative energy sources with an expansive network of dry ports across India, the Middle East, and Europe, CMA CGM aims to create a seamless and sustainable trade corridor. This blend of maritime expertise and land connectivity will ensure enhanced trade efficiency and contribute significantly to the future of global commerce.

Conclusion

The arrival of CMA CGM Vitoria as the Group’s first Indian-flagged vessel signifies a powerful new chapter in CMA CGM’s journey in India. With strategic investments, social contributions, and a strong focus on expanding its shipping and logistics services, CMA CGM is well-positioned to support India’s economic growth and solidify its role as a leader in global trade.