Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has called on global partners to tap into India’s $1 trillion maritime investment opportunity, positioning the country as a hub for innovation, sustainability, and international collaboration. His remarks came during the Ambassadors’ roundtable ahead of India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025, scheduled for October 27–31 in Mumbai.

Sonowal said India is transforming its ports, shipping, and logistics ecosystem into a resilient, sustainable, and future-ready sector, unlocking vast potential for joint ventures and strategic partnerships.

“This opens vast avenues for international collaboration. These opportunities open up a $1 trillion maritime investment roadmap, with strong potential for joint ventures in developing ports and cargo terminal operations, multi-modal terminals, maritime services, shipbuilding, ship recycling and ship repairs, green hydrogen hubs, and sustainable shipping solutions,” he stated.

Key investment prospects include mega projects such as Vadhavan Port, Galathea Bay Transshipment Port, and Tuna Tekra Terminal, along with maritime industrial parks, LNG bunkering facilities, and shipbuilding and recycling clusters. The government is also promoting the development of green hydrogen hubs to accelerate the transition toward sustainable shipping.

The roundtable discussions with Ambassadors highlighted India’s maritime priorities, including expanding shipbuilding capacity and driving port-led growth to establish the country as a global hub. Delegates also stressed the importance of the blue economy, emphasising sustainable growth and livelihoods through responsible use of ocean resources.

According to the Ministry’s statement, deliberations also focused on digitalisation of maritime logistics to enhance efficiency and transparency, and the need to accelerate adoption of green shipping solutions such as hydrogen-powered and low-emission vessels. The role of IFSC-GIFT City in facilitating maritime financing was highlighted as a key enabler to attract global investment and foster sector-wide innovation.

News source: Money Control