India pitches $1 trillion maritime roadmap at envoys’ meet ahead of IMW 2025
The ministry of ports, shipping and waterways hosted envoys from 28 countries, industry leaders and multilateral agencies at an Ambassadors’ Roundtable in New Delhi to build partnerships ahead of India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025, scheduled to be held from October 27 to 31 in Mumbai.
Chaired by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, the session underscored India’s growing role in global maritime trade, sustainable shipping and the blue economy. Sonowal urged global partners to see India as a hub for investment and innovation, highlighting the government’s $1 trillion maritime investment roadmap.
“India’s maritime journey is entering a new chapter under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. With 'Maritime India Vision 2030' and 'Amrit Kaal Vision 2047', our ports and logistics ecosystem is becoming more resilient, sustainable and future-ready,” Sonowal said.
The minister highlighted opportunities for joint ventures in port and cargo terminal development, shipbuilding, ship repairs, ship recycling, multi-modal terminals, green hydrogen hubs and sustainable shipping solutions.
Minister of State Shantanu Thakur also highlighted reforms in port modernisation, inland waterways, green and digital shipping, and called for greater private sector involvement. “Ports are not just gateways of prosperity, but gateways of India’s future,” Thakur said, citing India’s momentum in port modernisation, smart logistics and green shipping.
A presentation by MoPSW Joint Secretary R. Laxmanan showcased opportunities in mega projects such as Vadhavan Port, Galathea Bay Transshipment Port and Tuna Tekra Terminal, along with investments in LNG bunkering, shipbuilding, recycling and maritime industrial parks.
Envoys welcomed the government’s recent reforms, including five new legislations—the Bills of Lading Act, Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, Merchant Shipping Act, Coastal Shipping Act and Indian Ports Act—which replace colonial-era laws and align India’s framework with global practices.
The discussions also covered blue economy opportunities, digitalisation of maritime logistics, green shipping transitions, and the role of IFSC-GIFT City in driving maritime financing.
“IMW 2025 will be a platform where ideas can translate into projects and commitments into partnerships. India stands ready to collaborate and lead towards a maritime future that is prosperous, sustainable and inclusive,” minister Sonowal said.
Maritime