French liner major CMA CGM is expanding its footprint in India, signing contracts for six LNG-powered containerships at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL).
The agreement, signed in New Delhi by Chairman and CEO Rodolphe Saade, marks the first time a leading global container carrier has ordered LNG-fueled vessels from an Indian shipyard. For Cochin Shipyard, the project represents a milestone entry into LNG-fueled containership construction for a top-tier international carrier.
The six 1,700-TEU vessels will be constructed at CSL with technical cooperation from HD Hyundai Heavy Industries. Deliveries are scheduled between 2029 and 2031.
Designed to operate on liquefied natural gas and compatible with lower-carbon fuels, the ships support CMA CGM’s target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The order also signals growing confidence in India’s shipbuilding capabilities for complex, alternative-fuel tonnage.
The move forms part of a broader strategy to deepen industrial and operational ties with India.
CMA CGM has already recruited around 1,000 Indian seafarers and plans to increase that number to 1,500 by the end of 2026. Across its various activities, CMA CGM employs approximately 17,000 people in India and operates 19 weekly services linking Indian ports with global trade lanes.
In parallel, CMA CGM is establishing a dedicated R&D center in India in partnership with Capgemini. The hub will focus on AI-enabled and digital supply chain solutions, applying advanced analytics and automation across maritime operations, port efficiency, logistics optimization, and customer experience
The investment aligns with New Delhi’s long-term maritime strategy, including Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, aimed at transforming the country into a leading global maritime hub.
