Maharashtra has signed maritime investment agreements worth Rs. 760 bn, as the state seeks to strengthen its position as a global hub for shipping, ports and logistics. Fisheries and Ports Minister Nitesh Rane said the government was ready to facilitate new ventures in port development, shipbuilding, ship repair, logistics and exports. Rane was speaking at the inauguration of the fourth Maritime India Conference and Expo, organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry at NESCO, Goregaon. The three-day event, being held from November 2 to 4, has drawn participation from nine countries, including the Netherlands, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates. The minister said Maharashtra was working under the leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to expand its port, shipping, logistics and export capabilities to international standards. He identified the state’s extensive coastline, natural harbours, industrial infrastructure and export ecosystem as key advantages for maritime investment. The state government is focusing on infrastructure development to increase port capacity and expand shipping and logistics operations. It is also promoting single-window clearances to simplify approvals and reduce procedural hurdles for investors. Rane said the proposed Mumbai Water Metro was being explored as a modern water transport solution and expressed confidence that it could become the world’s largest water transport network. He urged international investors to establish businesses in port development, shipbuilding and ship repair, stating that the government was committed to combining Maharashtra’s geographic advantages with modern infrastructure. He added that maritime investments would expand industrial activity and create employment opportunities, while supporting India’s broader objective of strengthening its maritime capabilities during the Amrit Kaal. The summit was attended by senior representatives from FICCI, the shipping industry, overseas missions, the Indian Navy, the Shipping Corporation of India, the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, Odisha and the Maharashtra Maritime Board.