Indian ports turning into logistics and industrial hubs: Shipping Secy

singapore

India's ports are transforming from cargo gateways into integrated logistics and industrial hubs, supported by public-private partnerships and global best practices, Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Vijay Kumar said on Wednesday.

Addressing around 200 investors and industry stakeholders during a round-table held at the Singapore Maritime Week (SMW) 2026, Kumar pointed out that India is steadily and decisively moving to sustain growth, attract investment and integrate into global value chains. He shared that capacity at Indian ports has doubled, and the next frontier is to achieve world-class efficiency and transshipment.

Cargo handling capacity has doubled since 2013-14, from 1,400 MTPA to 2,771 MTPA, with a target of 3,500 MTPA by 2030 and 10,000 MTPA by 2047. In 2025-26, India's major ports handled over 915 million tonnes, the highest ever, registering over 7% growth annually. Kumar also highlighted changes in the Indian shipbuilding sector. A national container line is being formed, an energy fleet is being expanded through joint venture companies, and a ship-financing scheme is in place at the duty-free GIFT City.