PM Modi Invites Global Investors to Indian Shipping Sector
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has declared this the “right time” for global investors to bet on India’s rapidly expanding shipping and ports sector. Speaking at the India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai, the Prime Minister made a strong pitch for international investment while meeting with top executives from global shipping giants.
Key Highlights
- 100% FDI allowed in shipping and ports sector
- 12 major ports to quadruple capacity
- Rs 8,000 crore investment from Port of Singapore
- Over 150 initiatives under Maritime India Vision
Direct Appeal to Global Investors
“For all of you hailing from different countries, this is the right time to work in the Indian shipping sector and also expand your presence,” Modi stated during his public address. He emphasized that global partners are crucial to achieving India’s maritime ambitions.
The Prime Minister highlighted several key advantages for investors, including 100% foreign direct investment in shipping and ports, along with incentives under the “Make In India, and Make For The World” vision.
Major Infrastructure Push
India is currently developing world-class mega ports, with the Vadhavan Port project near Mumbai already ranking among the top-10 globally. The government plans to increase capacity at 12 major ports by four times and boost India’s share in global containerized cargo.
Modi specifically acknowledged Port of Singapore’s (PSA) Rs 8,000 crore investment in Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority’s fourth terminal, calling it the largest FDI in India’s port sector.
CEO Meetings and Global Participation
The Prime Minister held closed-door meetings with top executives from major shipping companies including:
- AP Moller-Maersk Chairman Robert Maersk Uggla
- DP World Group Chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem
- Mediterranean Shipping Company CEO Soren Toft
- Adani Ports and SEZ MD Karan Adani
- CMA-CGM Senior Vice President Ludovic Renou
With participation from over 85 countries, the India Maritime Week 2025 demonstrated strong global interest in India’s maritime growth story.
Maritime India Vision Achievements
Under the Maritime India Vision, more than 150 initiatives have been launched, resulting in:
- Near doubling of major port capacity
- Substantial reduction in turnaround time
- New momentum in cruise tourism
Modi affirmed India’s commitment to strengthening global supply chain resilience through these transformative projects.
