India and the Port of Rotterdam are exploring ways to digitalise cargo processes in India, with a focus on faster cargo evacuation, shorter vessel turnaround times and the adoption of modern port operating standards. Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal outlined the engagement on 25 October after visiting the Port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands and meeting its chief executive, Boudewijn Siemons. Goyal said Indian customs authorities and Rotterdam port authorities were working to identify opportunities to improve cargo processes through digitalisation. The initiative comes as India seeks to expand port capacity and improve logistics efficiency to support rising economic activity and international trade. However, no detailed implementation timeline, list of participating Indian ports or specific technology procurement programme has been announced. Faster cargo movement is the priority The focus on digitalisation reflects the need to improve the movement of goods through ports, where delays in documentation, approvals, cargo handling and collection can affect the performance of the wider supply chain. Faster cargo evacuation and reduced vessel turnaround times could help ports use existing infrastructure more efficiently. Better information exchange between customs, terminals, shipping lines, freight forwarders and transport providers can also help coordinate cargo movements and reduce avoidable administrative delays. For importers and exporters, the potential gains extend beyond the port itself. More predictable processing can improve inland transport planning, inventory management and delivery scheduling. The extent of these benefits will depend on the processes selected for improvement, the agencies involved and the ability of different systems to exchange information reliably. Rotterdam offers a digital logistics reference Rotterdam, Europe's largest port, is an important gateway for international trade and a major connection point for goods entering European markets. Its logistics infrastructure and established digital information-sharing arrangements offer practical experience for India to examine. In the Netherlands, Portbase operates a Port Community System that supports information exchange among logistics companies, shipping agents, terminals, carriers and public authorities. Its services include digital handling of shipping and cargo information, import and export processes, and coordination of container transport. Such systems illustrate how connected information flows can support port operations. However, the current India–Rotterdam engagement does not establish that India will adopt Portbase or replicate its system. The specific processes and digital tools that could be applied in India remain to be determined. India already has a maritime digital platform India has been developing its own digital infrastructure for maritime logistics. In March 2023, the government launched Sagar Setu, the mobile application of the National Logistics Portal Marine. The platform was designed to improve access to vessel-related information, gate and container freight station updates, tracking functions, approvals and digital transactions linked to import and export clearance. Its development provides an existing foundation for India's maritime digitalisation efforts. Any further initiatives arising from the Rotterdam engagement would need to fit within the country's current systems, regulatory arrangements and operational practices. The broader challenge is not simply to introduce new technology, but to ensure that information can move efficiently between the organisations responsible for clearing, handling and transporting cargo. India–EU trade agreement adds urgency to logistics efficiency The discussions also come as India and the European Union prepare for the potential expansion of bilateral trade under their free trade agreement. Negotiations for the India–EU FTA concluded in January 2026, and the European Commission submitted proposals for the agreement's signature and conclusion to the Council in September. The agreement has not yet entered into force and remains subject to the required approval procedures. Goyal said on 22 October that the deal could become operational in early 2027, depending on its signing and subsequent processes. Its eventual implementation is expected to create further commercial opportunities for businesses on both sides. Efficient cargo processing will be an important part of converting greater market access into practical trade benefits. Exporters need not only favourable trading conditions but also reliable documentation, predictable transit times and coordinated port-to-port logistics. Rotterdam's role as a gateway to European markets makes operational cooperation relevant to businesses seeking to strengthen India–Europe supply chains. Port capacity expansion must be matched by efficiency Goyal said India had doubled its port capacity over the previous decade and expected capacity to double twice more by 2047 to support economic growth and international trade. While investment in physical infrastructure remains important, improved processes can help determine how effectively that capacity is used. Digital systems that reduce delays and provide better visibility across cargo movements could complement investment in terminals, equipment and transport links. For port operators and logistics providers, the commercial value will depend on whether digitalisation produces measurable improvements in clearance times, cargo evacuation, vessel turnaround and coordination between stakeholders. Implementation details will determine the outcome The engagement with Rotterdam represents an opportunity to examine international port practices and identify possible improvements to India's cargo processes. It is not yet a confirmed technology deployment or a published national implementation programme. The next developments to watch will be the identification of participating agencies and ports, the processes selected for digitalisation, the systems involved and the performance targets against which progress will be assessed. For India's maritime sector, the objective is clear: to combine expanding port capacity with more efficient cargo processing. Turning discussions into coordinated, measurable operational improvements will determine how much value the engagement delivers to shippers, exporters and the wider logistics industry. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates

Bangladesh Railway (BR) is working to establish direct rail connectivity with existing and new terminals at Chattogram seaport as the government seeks to shift more freight from road to rail, improve cargo evacuation and reduce logistics costs. The initiative aims to strengthen the connection between Bangladesh’s principal seaport and the national railway network, potentially providing importers, exporters and logistics operators with a more efficient alternative to road-based container transportation. Improved rail access is expected to support faster cargo evacuation, ease pressure on highways and enhance freight movement between Chattogram and major inland destinations, particularly Dhaka. Rail Connectivity to Cover Existing and New Terminals The proposed initiative seeks to connect port terminals directly to the railway network, enabling containers and other cargo to move inland with less dependence on trucks. Chattogram Port handles a significant share of Bangladesh’s international trade through facilities including the Chittagong Container Terminal (CCT), New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT) and Patenga Container Terminal (PCT). Extending rail connectivity across these facilities could improve coordination between port operations and inland freight transportation. It could also create additional options for shipping lines, freight forwarders and cargo owners seeking more reliable container evacuation arrangements. The effectiveness of the plan will depend on the availability of terminal-side rail infrastructure, suitable loading and unloading facilities, and sufficient railway capacity to handle additional freight volumes. Push for Multimodal Logistics The rail connectivity initiative aligns with broader efforts to strengthen multimodal logistics in Bangladesh by integrating port, rail and road transportation. Better integration between the Chattogram seaport and inland rail corridors could streamline cargo movement, improve supply-chain reliability, and support the country's growing import and export needs. The development of port-related infrastructure around the Bay Terminal is also part of the broader effort to strengthen maritime capacity and improve the movement of goods through Bangladesh’s principal trade gateway. Closer coordination between Bangladesh Railway, the Chittagong Port Authority, terminal operators and freight-handling companies will be important to ensure that improved rail access translates into measurable operational benefits. Potential Benefits for Importers and Exporters A stronger port-to-rail freight network could offer several advantages to businesses involved in international trade. Lower inland logistics costs: Rail-based container movement could provide a competitive alternative to road transport, particularly for large and consolidated cargo volumes. Improved cargo evacuation: Direct rail access could offer additional capacity for moving containers out of port terminals, helping reduce congestion during periods of high cargo throughput. Reduced road congestion: Shifting suitable freight volumes to rail could reduce the number of trucks travelling between Chattogram and inland destinations. More sustainable transportation: Rail freight can reduce emissions per tonne-kilometre compared with road transport, depending on the energy source, load factor and operating conditions. Stronger supply-chain reliability: Better integration between maritime and rail services could provide shippers with more transportation options and improve the coordination of inland deliveries. Implementation Will Determine the Impact Despite the potential benefits, the initiative's success will depend on effective implementation. Railway capacity, locomotive and wagon availability, terminal handling equipment, scheduling, customs clearance and coordination among public and private stakeholders will all influence the results. Reliable freight services and efficient transfers between ships, terminals and trains will be essential if rail is to capture a larger share of container traffic currently transported by road. If implemented effectively, expanded rail connectivity at Chattogram seaport could strengthen Bangladesh’s multimodal freight network, improve cargo evacuation and help businesses manage inland logistics costs more efficiently. The initiative represents a potentially important step towards a more integrated and resilient transportation system supporting Bangladesh’s international trade. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.

 India’s inland waterway cargo traffic reached 218 million metric tonnes in the 2025–26 financial year, exceeding the 200-million-tonne target set under Maritime India Vision 2030. The milestone reflects the sector’s expansion over the past decade, as the government continues to develop navigation infrastructure, improve operational information and encourage cargo owners to consider waterway-based freight solutions. According to government figures highlighted on 16 October 2026, inland waterway cargo increased from 29 million tonnes in 2014–15 to 218 million tonnes in 2025–26. The latest volume is 18 million tonnes above the 2030 benchmark, representing a 9% increase over the target. The next challenge for the sector is to translate higher cargo volumes into dependable, commercially competitive freight services that can connect waterways with road and rail networks. Inland Waterway Network Continues to Expand: India has 111 National Waterways spanning 20,187 kilometres across 23 states and four Union Territories. However, 32 waterways, covering 5,155 kilometres, were operational as of March 2026. The distinction between designated and operational waterways remains important for cargo owners and logistics providers. Commercial services require navigable channels, suitable terminals, reliable vessel operations and effective connections to production and consumption centres. The Union Budget 2026–27 announced plans to operationalise 20 additional National Waterways over five years. The initiative forms part of the broader effort to expand the availability of inland water transport and strengthen its role in the national freight network. Longer-term policy ambitions include increasing inland water transport’s share of freight movement from approximately 2% to 5% and reaching 500 million tonnes of cargo by 2047. Navigation Information Becomes Critical to Operations: As cargo volumes rise, navigation reliability and access to timely operational information are becoming increasingly important. By September 2026, regular surveys monitoring the deepest navigable channel covered 22 National Waterways. Depending on local requirements, surveys are conducted weekly, fortnightly or monthly to assess available depth and support decisions on vessel draft and cargo loading. Electronic Navigational Charts had also been prepared for 18 operational and tidal waterways. Digital platforms, including PANI and IWAI Vessel Tracker, provide navigation-related information to operators. Access to more reliable data can help vessel operators plan voyages, determine loading conditions and manage schedules. However, digital information must be supported by physical infrastructure and fairway maintenance to ensure that waterways remain usable under changing conditions. For freight customers, the effectiveness of these measures will depend on whether they improve service consistency, vessel utilisation and the predictability of cargo movements. Jalvahak Scheme Seeks to Encourage Cargo Shift: Financial incentives are another element of the government’s strategy to increase waterway utilisation. Launched in December 2024, the Jalvahak scheme provides incentives of up to 35% of eligible operating expenditure for the waterway leg of qualifying cargo movements. The scheme covers National Waterways 1, 2 and 16, along with eligible routes under the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol. A separate component supports scheduled services operated by Inland and Coastal Shipping Limited, with funding from the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI). The scheme addresses a key challenge in multimodal logistics: while water transport may offer advantages over certain long-distance road movements, additional handling, terminal charges and connecting transport can affect the overall cost of delivery. The incentive excludes first- and last-mile expenditure. Cargo owners must therefore evaluate the full logistics chain, including terminal handling, connecting road or rail transport, sailing frequency, transit time and delivery requirements. The commercial viability of waterway freight ultimately depends on the cost and reliability of the complete journey rather than the waterborne segment alone. Infrastructure Supports Multimodal Freight Movement: Infrastructure developed under the Jal Marg Vikas Project provides part of the foundation for cargo operations along National Waterway 1. Key developments include multimodal terminals at Varanasi, Sahibganj and Haldia, an intermodal terminal at Kalughat and a navigation lock at Farakka. These facilities are intended to support cargo handling and connect river transport with inland logistics networks. Private investment is also being encouraged to expand terminal infrastructure. The National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025 established a framework intended to facilitate the development of jetties and terminals by companies, public bodies and joint ventures. The combination of infrastructure investment, navigation support and cargo incentives is intended to create more opportunities for businesses to incorporate inland waterways into their transport strategies. Commercial Competitiveness Remains the Next Test: Crossing the 200-million-tonne target represents a significant milestone in the expansion of India’s inland waterway cargo business. Sustaining this growth will require more than increasing aggregate tonnage. For manufacturers, exporters, importers and logistics providers, key considerations include predictable transit times, dependable vessel schedules, adequate terminal capacity and effective road and rail connections. Cargo volumes also need to be assessed alongside the distances travelled and the economics of individual routes. Tonnage measures the quantity of cargo handled, while tonne-kilometres account for both cargo weight and distance, offering a different perspective on freight activity. As additional waterways become operational and supporting infrastructure develops, the sector’s progress will increasingly depend on its ability to secure regular commercial cargo commitments. For India’s logistics industry, the priority is now to turn the expansion in inland waterway traffic into reliable, cost-effective and integrated freight services that can support long-term supply chain development. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates

PPA Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit reviews Phase I development, focusing on mechanisation, cargo handling efficiency and improved rail-road connectivity at JPPL berth.  Paradip Port Authority (PPA) Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, reviewed the development and operational readiness of the Western Dock terminal at the Jindal Paradip Port Limited (JPPL) berth, with a focus on commissioning Phase I and strengthening cargo-handling infrastructure. The review covered berth operations, infrastructure development and measures to improve terminal productivity. Discussions with senior PPA officials and JPPL representatives, including Deputy CEO Sandeep Jaiswal, focused on achieving full berth mechanisation, improving cargo handling efficiency and strengthening rail and road connectivity for cargo evacuation. Phase I Designed for 12.5 Million Tonnes Annually: Phase I of the Western Dock project is designed to handle 12.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). The wider project envisages a total dry bulk cargo handling capacity of 25 MTPA and is being developed under the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model. The review assessed progress towards commissioning and operationalising the facility. The planned capacity is intended to expand Paradip Port’s ability to handle dry bulk commodities and support cargo demand from industrial and trade sectors. The successful berthing of deep-draft Capesize vessels was also highlighted during the visit, demonstrating the terminal’s role in accommodating large vessels for bulk cargo operations. Mechanisation and Cargo Evacuation in Focus: Achieving 100% berth mechanisation was a key priority during the review. Mechanised handling systems can support cargo movement and terminal productivity, while efficient evacuation arrangements are essential to managing volumes at the planned capacity. PPA and JPPL representatives also discussed improving rail and road connectivity to facilitate the movement of cargo from the terminal to inland destinations. The effectiveness of these connections will be important in limiting logistics bottlenecks and ensuring that cargo can be moved efficiently beyond the port. Terminal handling capacity and landside evacuation capability will need to work together as operations develop. Safety, Sustainability and Technology: The review also addressed sustainable port operations, compliance with safety standards, technology-driven logistics solutions and the integration of multimodal cargo evacuation systems. These measures form part of the broader operational requirements for developing the Western Dock terminal. Coordination between berth operations, cargo-handling systems and inland transport links will be important to supporting reliable service delivery. Western Dock to Expand Paradip’s Bulk Cargo Capabilities: The Western Dock project is part of the ongoing development of Paradip Port’s infrastructure and cargo-handling capabilities on India’s eastern coast. With Phase I designed for 12.5 MTPA and the wider project targeting 25 MTPA, the development is intended to increase dry bulk handling capacity and support maritime trade. The next milestones will centre on commissioning Phase I, progressing mechanisation and ensuring effective rail and road connectivity. The extent to which the terminal achieves its planned throughput will depend on operational readiness, cargo demand and the efficiency of its wider logistics connections. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates

Paradip Port Authority (PPA) has constructed the 500-metre-long Atharabanki Bridge at a cost of ₹24.89 crore to strengthen road connectivity and facilitate smoother cargo transportation in the Paradip Port region. The three-lane bridge is expected to ease traffic congestion, improve the movement of commercial vehicles and enhance connectivity between the port and the surrounding road network. The development is particularly significant given that nearly 3,000 trucks move through Paradip Port every day. Three-Lane Bridge to Ease Traffic Congestion: The newly constructed Atharabanki Bridge replaces an ageing two-lane structure that faced capacity constraints amid rising transportation demand. Its expanded configuration is designed to accommodate increased traffic volumes and improve access for trucks and other vehicles involved in port-related operations. The upgraded infrastructure is expected to support more efficient cargo movement, reduce potential delays and improve road access for transport operators, logistics providers and other stakeholders associated with the port. Key Features of the Atharabanki Bridge: The project incorporates several features aimed at improving connectivity and functionality: Project cost: ₹24.89 crore Length: 500 metres Configuration: Three lanes Structural component: 30-metre composite girder Additional facilities: Dedicated footpaths and a pipeline corridor Dedicated pedestrian pathways provide designated space for people on foot, while the pipeline corridor accommodates infrastructure requirements associated with pipelines. Boost to Port Logistics and Regional Connectivity: As a major maritime gateway on India's eastern coast, Paradip Port plays an important role in cargo transportation and trade. Efficient road connectivity is essential to ensuring the smooth movement of goods between port facilities and the wider transportation network. The Atharabanki Bridge is expected to strengthen this vital link by improving traffic flow and supporting the movement of cargo-carrying vehicles. Better connectivity could also help reduce transportation delays, improve logistics efficiency and enhance the reliability of port-related operations. Beyond its immediate benefits for port traffic, the bridge is expected to improve regional accessibility and support economic activity in the Paradip area. Infrastructure Investment to Support Future Growth: The construction of the Atharabanki Bridge highlights the importance of developing supporting infrastructure to meet the evolving demands of ports, trade and logistics. As cargo volumes and road transportation requirements increase, investments in bridges and connectivity corridors are essential to strengthening supply-chain efficiency. By upgrading the existing two-lane crossing to a modern three-lane structure, Paradip Port Authority has taken a step towards improving the port's supporting infrastructure. The project is expected to contribute to smoother cargo movement, stronger regional connectivity and improved efficiency across India's maritime logistics network.  

Thiruvananthapuram: Vizhinjam International Seaport has officially commenced full-scale Export-Import (EXIM) operations, opening a direct maritime gateway for cargo from South India to global markets. The launch was marked by the flag-off of the port’s first commercial export consignment to Valencia, Spain. The shipment, comprising frozen traditional food products from Thiruvananthapuram-based Nilamel Exporters, highlights the potential for the port to reduce transit times for exporters by eliminating overseas transhipment points. According to the port, shipments to European markets that previously took nearly 60 days could now reach their destinations in around 24 days by avoiding transhipment through hubs such as Colombo, Singapore and Dubai. The commencement of direct EXIM services marks a significant expansion of Vizhinjam’s role, positioning it not only as a transhipment facility but also as a gateway for inbound and outbound international cargo from the region. Ashwani Gupta, CEO and Director, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), said the company plans to invest an additional ₹16,000 crore to expand the port’s container-handling capacity from 1.6 million TEUs to 5.7 million TEUs. The expanded capacity is expected to strengthen Vizhinjam’s position as a major container hub in the Indian Ocean region as cargo volumes increase. The direct EXIM connectivity is also expected to benefit exporters across Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka by reducing transhipment-related costs and shortening supply chain turnaround times. Key commodities from the region include spices, cashew, marine products, handlooms and manufactured goods. Vizhinjam’s location further supports its role as an international gateway. The port has a natural depth of around 20–24 metres and is located approximately 10 nautical miles from the major east-west international shipping route, allowing it to accommodate large container vessels with limited dredging requirements. The port also uses an automated container-handling system supported by artificial intelligence and algorithm-driven operations, aimed at improving cargo-handling efficiency and safety. With direct EXIM operations now underway and a major capacity expansion planned, Vizhinjam is emerging as an important addition to India’s maritime infrastructure and its efforts to connect domestic exporters more directly with global trade routes. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such news

Italian shipping company Ignazio Messina & C. has launched the Red Sea Express Line, expanding its India–Red Sea service network to increase sailing frequency and cargo capacity on a trade corridor that connects India with the Gulf and Saudi Arabia. The new service is scheduled to begin operations from Nhava Sheva on 27 August 2026. The Red Sea Express will operate alongside the company's existing Jolly Line service, providing additional departures and greater schedule flexibility for cargo moving between the Indian subcontinent and the Red Sea region. The move comes as shipping lines continue to strengthen service offerings on regional trade lanes amid growing demand for reliable connections. To support the new service, Ignazio Messina has deployed the MV Berham Box, a vessel dedicated exclusively to the Red Sea Express route. The service will follow a rotation of Nhava Sheva – Sohar – Jeddah – Nhava Sheva, operating on a 20-day frequency. The route is expected to provide regular connectivity between India, Oman and Saudi Arabia, supporting the movement of containerised cargo as well as industrial equipment, machinery and project cargo. Increased sailing options are also expected to improve supply chain planning for exporters and importers serving the region. The launch strengthens Ignazio Messina's presence in the Indian Ocean–Red Sea corridor, a market that has seen sustained demand for dependable shipping services. By adding capacity and dedicated vessel deployment, the carrier aims to improve network resilience while expanding its regional liner service portfolio. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates. 

Andhra Pradesh is seeking a larger role in future global shipping networks by positioning its ports and logistics infrastructure to benefit from emerging Arctic maritime routes and evolving international trade corridors, according to state IT and HRD Minister Nara Lokesh. Speaking at an international forum in Russia, Lokesh said shifts in global trade patterns, coupled with the gradual development of Arctic shipping lanes, could reshape cargo flows between Asia, Europe and North America over the coming decades. He said Andhra Pradesh intends to leverage its coastline, port infrastructure and industrial corridors to become an important node in these changing trade networks. The minister highlighted the state's strategic location on India's eastern seaboard, its deep-water ports and ongoing investments in logistics and industrial infrastructure. According to him, these assets place Andhra Pradesh in a favourable position to support international trade as supply chains diversify and new maritime routes gain commercial relevance.  Arctic shipping routes have attracted increasing attention from governments and industry stakeholders because they can significantly reduce transit times between parts of Asia and Europe compared with traditional routes through the Suez Canal. While commercial adoption remains limited due to seasonal, environmental and geopolitical factors, logistics experts view the Arctic as a potential long-term supplement to existing global shipping corridors. Lokesh noted that Andhra Pradesh is pursuing a broader strategy centred on port-led industrialisation, logistics parks, multimodal connectivity and manufacturing growth. The state has been expanding its maritime infrastructure while promoting investments in sectors such as advanced manufacturing, technology, energy and export-oriented industries.  The government is also strengthening links between ports, industrial clusters and transport networks to reduce logistics costs and improve cargo movement efficiency. These initiatives form part of Andhra Pradesh's ambition to establish itself as a major gateway for international trade and supply chain activities on India's east coast. Industry observers note that the growing focus on alternative trade corridors comes at a time when companies are reassessing supply chain resilience following disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions, climate-related events and congestion at key maritime chokepoints. As a result, governments and logistics providers are exploring additional routes and infrastructure investments to diversify global trade networks. For Andhra Pradesh, participation in emerging trade corridors could strengthen cargo volumes, attract industrial investment and reinforce the state's position as a logistics hub serving both domestic and international markets. If global shipping patterns continue to evolve, ports along India's eastern coast could play a more prominent role in connecting Asian production centres with markets across Europe and beyond.  Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.   

Mumbai Port Authority has set an ambitious cargo throughput target of 80 million metric tonnes (MMT) for the coming fiscal year, following its highest-ever cargo handling performance of 75.15 MMT in FY 2025-26. The achievement underscores the port’s growing importance in India’s maritime logistics ecosystem and highlights its continued focus on operational excellence, capacity optimization, and stakeholder collaboration. The record performance represents a significant milestone for one of India’s oldest and most strategically located ports. During FY 2025-26, Mumbai Port accounted for 8.22% of the cargo handled by the country’s major ports, reinforcing its position as a key gateway for international and coastal trade. The port also maintained strong market shares across critical cargo segments, including iron and steel EXIM cargo, liquid bulk cargo, and coastal trade. The new target was announced during a stakeholder meeting convened by the port authority to review operational performance and identify strategies for sustaining growth. Discussions focused on improving vessel turnaround times, optimizing berth utilization, enhancing cargo handling efficiency, and maintaining cost competitiveness amid evolving global trade dynamics. Addressing industry stakeholders, Mumbai Port Authority Chairperson Dr. M. Angamuthu emphasized that the record cargo throughput was the result of coordinated efforts among port users, trade partners, terminal operators, and government agencies. He highlighted the broader economic impact of port-led growth, noting that increased cargo volumes contribute to revenue generation, employment creation, and national economic development. The port authority is also prioritizing sustainability and long-term infrastructure development as part of its growth strategy. Stakeholders reviewed plans aimed at strengthening operational resilience while advancing environmentally responsible cargo handling practices. Future expansion initiatives, including waterfront development projects, are expected to support the port’s long-term competitiveness and service capabilities. Mumbai Port’s growth ambitions align with the broader momentum across India’s maritime sector. The country’s major ports collectively handled a record 915.17 million tonnes of cargo in FY 2025-26, reflecting rising trade volumes, infrastructure investments, and efficiency improvements across the logistics network. Against this backdrop, Mumbai Port’s 80 MMT target signals its intent to play an even larger role in supporting India’s supply chain and trade ambitions in the years ahead. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held discussions with senior leadership of A.P. Moller–Maersk in Gothenburg, Sweden, focusing on strengthening cooperation in maritime logistics, port infrastructure development, and green shipping initiatives. The meeting underscores India’s growing push to modernise its maritime ecosystem and position itself as a major global logistics and shipping hub. During the interaction, PM Modi met Maersk Chairman Robert Maersk Uggla on the sidelines of his engagements in Sweden, where he has been holding talks with European industry leaders and government officials. Discussions reportedly centred on opportunities for investments in India’s ports, logistics infrastructure, and sustainable maritime solutions. The talks assume significance as India accelerates efforts under its Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, aimed at transforming the country’s shipping and logistics capabilities through port-led development, improved multimodal connectivity, and adoption of green technologies. The government has been actively engaging global maritime companies to attract investments and technological expertise into the sector. Maersk, one of the world’s largest container shipping and integrated logistics companies, has been expanding its presence in India across supply chain solutions, warehousing, inland logistics, and port operations. The company has also been at the forefront of global decarbonisation efforts in shipping, including investments in alternative fuels and low-emission vessel technologies. Green shipping emerged as a key area of discussion during the Gothenburg meeting. India has increasingly prioritised sustainable maritime operations through international collaborations and policy initiatives focused on reducing emissions and building greener port infrastructure. Recent partnerships with European countries, including Denmark, have already paved the way for initiatives such as a Centre of Excellence in Green Shipping and studies on green maritime corridors. The meeting with Maersk aligns with India’s broader strategy of strengthening resilient supply chains and enhancing trade connectivity with Europe. Modi, during his engagements in Sweden, highlighted the importance of trusted global partnerships, resilient logistics networks, and sustainable industrial growth amid evolving geopolitical and economic challenges. Industry observers believe deeper collaboration between India and global shipping leaders such as Maersk could accelerate the modernisation of Indian ports, improve cargo handling efficiencies, and support the transition towards cleaner maritime transport systems. The discussions also reinforce India’s ambition to emerge as a leading player in the global blue economy and sustainable shipping ecosystem.