Global integrated logistics giant Maersk announced a series of strategic initiatives during the 202 India Maritime Week, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the country’s maritime sector. Maersk plans to significantly expand its footprint in India through investments in port infrastructure vessel re-registry, and enhanced local partnerships across the maritime value chain.

APM Terminals plans $2 billion investment

APM Terminals a Maersk company, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Gujarat Maritime Board, outlining a proposed expansion plan that includes an investment of $2 billionapproximately INR 17,000 crore). The expansion plan, which requires a long-term concession agreement with the Indian authorities, will leverage advanced container liquid cargo handling infrastructure to significantly enhance port capacity and capability, and strengthen multi-modal connectivity with the Dedicated Freight Corridor and domestic inland areas.

The investment plan is not only about the expansion of Pipavav Port but also unlocks new opportunities for the state of Gujarat, India, and global trade. “ support the vision of the honorable Prime Minister Modi and are committed to creating the capacity, resilience, and sustainability to serve the Indian economy for decades,” said Jon Goldner,, APAC & Middle East, APM Terminals. “Our goal is to position Pipavav Port as a beacon of world-class efficiency and green growth, lasting prosperity for the local community and strengthening India’s leadership in maritime trade.”

Vessel re-registry to Indian flag and local maritime cooperation

Maersk marked a significant milestone in its maritime collaboration in India by registering a new legal entity – Maersk Bharat IFSC Pvt. Ltd. – with the Financial Services Centre Authority (IFSCA) in Gujarat, and by registering two vessels, the “Maersk Vigo” and the “Maersk Vilius”, under the Indian flag. This move aligns with the trend of domestic tonnage becoming increasingly important for supply chain resilience.

The company also strengthened collaboration with Indian shipyards for ship repair and maintenance activities. Several Memoranda of Understanding have been signed with multiple yards to explore ship repair, maintenance, and new building opportunities, capabilities in line with international operating standards, and create knowledge transfer and skill development opportunities.

In addition, Maersk is exploring local manufacturing and procurement of containers India, working closely with its partners to share technical specifications and quality requirements for the purchase of seaworthy containers, aiming to develop a robust domestic production roadmap.

“India has a strong infrastructure capacity that Maersk looks to tap into. By re-registering vessels under the Indian flag, manufacturing seaworthy containers in India and collaborating local shipyards for maintenance and repair activities, we are not only expanding our operational flexibility but also investing in the growth of the maritime ecosystem in India, signifying our confidence in the’s technical capabilities,” said Ahmed Hassan, Head of Asset Strategy, Maersk.

Investing in maritime talent

Maers is collaborating with educational institutions and organizations focused on skill development in the maritime sector to provide world-class on-board training opportunities for maritime cadets and ordinary seafarers. These initiatives aim to develop a high-quality workforce aligned with global standards while creating meaningful employment opportunities in the maritime industry