India’s New Maritime Strategy: Foreign Ship Registration, Port Reforms, and Vision 2047
Sea News – The India Maritime Week 2025 held in Mumbai brought together major players and companies in the shipping industry, marking one of the most significant milestones in global maritime transport this year. During the event, the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) announced plans to register 12 of its vessels, each with a capacity of 3,000–5,000 TEUs, under the Indian flag. This move aligns with the Indian government’s new policy to expand the national fleet’s share in global maritime trade. At the same time, Maersk also transferred two of its ships to the Indian registry for the same purpose.
These developments coincide with the implementation of India’s strategic documents — Maritime Vision 2030 and Maritime Horizon 2047 — which focus on strengthening port infrastructure, expanding inland waterways, and enhancing logistics services. In his keynote speech, the Prime Minister of India emphasized the country’s ambition to become a leading global maritime power and open new routes in international trade.
Despite the positive tone of the event, several companies, including MSC, raised concerns over infrastructure readiness at the newly established Vizhinjam Port. Representatives noted that essential facilities for immigration services and electronic customs systems (ICEGATE) are not yet operational, with much of the documentation still being processed manually. They stressed that achieving global standards requires parallel progress in both physical development and digital reforms.
Analysts believe that transferring ships to the Indian flag not only benefits companies economically but also strengthens India’s standing in international maritime organizations. Registering vessels under the national flag ensures that shipping revenues and technical services remain within the country — a strategic advantage amid regional competition with China and Gulf states.
The recent changes also carry clear implications for other regional nations, including Iran. India’s rapid expansion of its port and fleet capacities could reshape trade and transit routes, yet its experience in port restructuring and logistics reform could serve as a valuable model for others seeking internal policy adjustments. With its strategic position in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, Iran has the potential to become a regional maritime services hub — provided that port modernization, digitalization, and flagging reforms are pursued seriously.
In conclusion, the events at India Maritime Week were more than just a technical gathering; they signaled a new alignment in the global maritime landscape — one increasingly driven by speed, technology, and efficiency, as nations compete to secure their place in the emerging maritime order.
