CMA CGM Group (CMA CGM) signed the final Shipbuilding Contract with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) for six LNG-powered containerships of 1,700-TEU capacity. The letter of intent for the order was signed at India Maritime Week last October and the group used the signing to outline further plans for growth in India.

CMA CGM said it would explore partnerships with Indian stakeholders to strengthen container manufacturing capabilities, promote sustainable ship recycling and support the development of domestic container shipping. The company, one of the large global container procurers, said it would make a decision on building containers in India where comparative pricing with China is offered, according to the chairman and chief executive. The ministry has extensively consulted shipping lines on a proposed container manufacturing assistance scheme announced in the Union Budget for 2026–27 and will aim to ensure containers built in India are aligned with global pricing, the shipping secretary said.

The group said it would add 500 seafarers from India in 2026 in addition to the 1,000 already committed. It also announced plans to develop its innovation presence in India to actively leverage artificial intelligence and, in partnership with Capgemini, has established a dedicated Research and Development (R&D) hub in India to position the country as a key global centre for innovation within the group. Decisions on container construction in India will depend on future developments in domestic capacity and competitive pricing, the company added.

The agreement is expected to raise the profile of CSL among international owners and to support skills development for construction and maintenance of smaller containerships. Industry participants said the order could act as a catalyst for growth in India’s shipbuilding and related manufacturing sectors and encourage sustainable practices in design and recycling. The group indicated it would continue to engage with Indian stakeholders to explore pathways for local manufacturing, workforce expansion and alignment with global standards.