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Major Boost for India’s Maritime Growth Vision 2047
India’s bid to become a global maritime and logistics powerhouse has received a $7 billion boost as Dubai-based DP World and Danish shipping giant APM Terminals unveiled major new investments during India Maritime Week 2025.
The combined commitments underscore growing international confidence in India’s port and sea freight infrastructure amid large-scale modernization under the government’s Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
DP World will inject an additional $5 billion into its Indian operations, while APM Terminals — part of the A.P. Moller–Maersk Group — has committed $2 billion to expand the Pipavav Port in Gujarat.
Together, the investments mark one of the largest-ever foreign capital infusions into India’s maritime sector.
DP World Strengthens Its Integrated Logistics Network
DP World’s latest investment takes its total India commitment to nearly $8 billion over the past three decades.
The funds will be used to expand multimodal connectivity, reduce logistics costs, and enhance export competitiveness through advanced port, rail, and inland terminal projects.
As part of its latest initiative, DP World signed five memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with Indian maritime authorities, covering key areas such as:
- Green coastal shipping and sustainability programs
- Ship repair and maintenance facilities in collaboration with Cochin Shipyard Limited
- Skill development and workforce training for maritime operations
- Freight mobility innovations to support domestic and international trade
DP World’s feeder arm, Unifeeder, also signed an MoU with Sagarmala Finance Corporation to promote sustainable coastal shipping routes.
Meanwhile, a separate partnership between Drydocks World and Cochin Shipyard Limited will expand ship repair capacity in Kochi.
In another landmark step, DP World joined hands with Deendayal Port Authority and Nevomo (MagRail) to test India’s first automated low-emission port track system, a futuristic solution aimed at cutting carbon intensity in cargo movement.
“This investment reflects our shared commitment to building a connected, confident, and self-reliant India,” said Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World.
Maersk Expands Pipavav Port for Global Trade Connectivity
Meanwhile, APM Terminals Pipavav signed an MoU with the Gujarat Maritime Board for a $2 billion expansion project that will transform the port into a multi-purpose, high-capacity logistics hub.
The initiative forms part of Maersk’s $5 billion India infrastructure plan, unveiled earlier this year.
The upgrade will significantly boost Pipavav’s container, liquid bulk, and Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) cargo capacity, while incorporating automation and renewable energy systems to enhance sustainability.
“The expansion aims to unlock new opportunities for Gujarat, for India, and for global trade,” said Jon Goldner, CEO of APM Terminals Asia & Middle East, adding that Pipavav represents “world-class efficiency and green growth.”
The upgraded terminal will create around 25,000 new jobs, improve access to the Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC), and strengthen supply chains for key industries such as automotive, energy, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Accelerating India’s Sea Freight and Port Capacity
The dual investments from DP World and Maersk come as India accelerates efforts to modernize its port infrastructure, aiming to add over 430 ships worth $26 billion to its national fleet by 2035.
The initiatives align with India’s broader strategy to reduce logistics costs to 8% of GDP and expand sea freight capacity across major gateways like Nhava Sheva, Kandla, Cochin, and Chennai.
Experts say the latest capital commitments will not only improve port connectivity and cargo handling efficiency but also position India as a leading transshipment and sea freight hub for the Indian Ocean and Asia-Pacific regions.
Conclusion: India’s Maritime Transformation Gathers Pace
The $7 billion in new funding marks a pivotal moment for India’s maritime sector, strengthening its position in global trade while advancing green port development, digital logistics, and supply chain resilience.
As DP World and Maersk deepen their long-term commitments, India’s Vision 2047 is on track to deliver one of the world’s most competitive and sustainable sea freight ecosystems.
