India aims for 5% of global shipbuilding market by 2030

By Admin

16 Sep, 2025

India is charting a bold course to emerge as a major global shipbuilding hub, with the government setting an ambitious target of securing 5 percent of the global market by 2030. Union Minister Shantanu Thakur, while outlining this vision in Goa, emphasized a comprehensive roadmap that brings together infrastructure expansion, technological innovation, and sustainability as key drivers of growth.

Modernizing Shipyards through Public-Private Partnerships

At the heart of this strategy is the development of ten world-class shipyards under public-private partnerships (PPP). These facilities will be equipped with advanced technologies such as automation, digital twin solutions, and green shipbuilding practices to boost efficiency and global competitiveness. This approach also aligns with India’s long-term net-zero 2070 commitments, ensuring that sustainability is embedded into future shipbuilding.

Role of the Maritime Development Fund

A critical enabler of this transformation will be the Maritime Development Fund, designed to modernize shipyards, support R&D in autonomous and eco-friendly vessels, and facilitate large-scale workforce development. By 2030, the initiative aims to create a skilled workforce of 50,000 professionals, strengthening India’s human capital base in maritime technology and operations.

Strengthening Ports and Logistics Connectivity

The shipbuilding vision is supported by a parallel push to enhance port infrastructure and multimodal logistics. Deendayal Port, Kolkata, and island territories are undergoing major upgrades, while the PM Gati Shakti programme is streamlining last-mile connectivity and reducing vessel turnaround times. Additionally, the integration of coastal industrial clusters in Gujarat, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh with shipyards will help lower input costs and improve supply chain efficiency.

Building India’s Own Container Shipping Line

To reduce reliance on foreign fleets, India also plans to launch a national container shipping line by 2030. The goal is to produce half of its container vessels domestically by 2035, reinforcing maritime self-reliance. Backed by initiatives like Sagarmala, green shipping corridors, and expanded container handling capacity, this step will boost India’s share in global maritime trade.

A Strategic Role in Global Shipbuilding

Collectively, these initiatives represent a holistic maritime strategy combining shipyard modernization, port infrastructure, logistics efficiency, and indigenous fleet development. By 2030, India aims not only to capture 5 percent of the global shipbuilding market but also to establish itself as a sustainable and technology-driven maritime powerhouse.