India’s Cochin Shipyard CMA CGM order marks a major milestone for the nation’s shipbuilding industry. The French shipping company CMA CGM has signed a letter of intent with the Indian yard to build six LNG-powered feeder containerships, each with a capacity of 1,700 TEU, CMA CGM reported.
The total value of the order is reported at around $300 million. A formal shipbuilding contract is expected in the coming months.
The deal represents the first order by a global liner operator at an Indian shipyard. CMA CGM has been expanding its operations in India for decades, reflagging vessels and investing in port infrastructure at Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal and Mundra Port. The six newbuilds will also be registered under the Indian flag
Cochin Shipyard, established in 1972 and controlled by the Indian government, has been steadily expanding its commercial shipbuilding capabilities. The yard previously secured a containership contract with Samskip in 2023 and has ongoing collaborations with international partners, including HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and Maersk, to enhance construction and repair capabilities.
India aims to increase its share in global shipbuilding, currently around 1%, with government support targeting top-10 ranking by 2030 and top-five by 2047. Analysts say this first international order could encourage additional contracts from CMA CGM, Maersk, MSC, and other major operators.
