The CMA CGM Group, a global leader in shipping and logistics, has signed a letter of intent with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) for the construction of six new 1,700 TEU dual-fuel LNG-powered containerships — marking the first time a major international container carrier has placed such an order with an Indian shipyard.
Each vessel will be registered under the Indian flag and designed to operate on liquefied natural gas (LNG), with readiness for future low-carbon fuels. The order supports CMA CGM’s global strategy for cleaner shipping and its ambition to achieve Net Zero Carbon emissions by 2050.
The vessels will be built in collaboration with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, South Korea, which will provide technical expertise. Delivery is scheduled between 2029 and 2031.
The agreement reinforces CMA CGM’s long-term investment in India’s maritime ecosystem and aligns with national initiatives such as Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
In 2025, CMA CGM reflagged four vessels under the Indian registry and aims to recruit 1,000 Indian seafarers by the end of the year. An additional 500 will be hired in 2026, expanding its India-based maritime workforce.
Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of the CMA CGM Group, said, “I am pleased that CMA CGM is the first international shipping company to order LNG vessels built in India. This milestone reflects the trust we place in India’s industrial and technological capabilities and supports Prime Minister Modi’s ambition to make India a global shipbuilding power.”
Madhu S Nair, Chairman and Managing Director of Cochin Shipyard, added: “We are honoured to partner with CMA CGM on this important project. It reflects our shipbuilding expertise and our collaboration with HD Hyundai. Together, we aim to deliver vessels that meet the future standards of sustainable maritime transport.”
With over three decades of operations in India, CMA CGM operates 19 weekly maritime services connecting the country to global trade routes and employs around 17,000 people across its Indian operations.
This order marks a significant step for both CMA CGM and India’s shipbuilding ambitions under the Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, showcasing Cochin Shipyard’s growing capabilities in constructing advanced, environmentally responsible vessels for the global market.
