A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) and Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore opportunities in ship repair, maintenance, and new vessel construction in India. The agreement aims to enhance ship maintenance capabilities, with Maersk planning to conduct its first vessel repair at CSL in 2025.
Under the MoU, Maersk will contribute technical expertise to support CSL’s ship repair and dry-docking operations, particularly for container ships. The collaboration will initially focus on vessels up to 7,000 TEU for afloat repairs and up to 4,000 TEU for dry-docking, with potential expansion in the future.
Key areas of cooperation outlined in the agreement include:
- Technical collaboration to meet international ship maintenance standards
- Exploration of new ship repair and dry-docking projects
- Joint training programs and skill development initiatives for CSL employees and Maersk seafarers
The partnership follows recent announcements in India’s Union Budget 2025-26, which include plans to develop shipbuilding and repair clusters and establish a Shipping Development Fund to facilitate long-term financing for the sector.
Leonardo Sonzio, Head of Fleet Management & Technology at Maersk, stated that the collaboration is intended to enhance maritime infrastructure in India. Rajesh Gopalakrishnan, Executive Director of Cochin Shipyard Limited, noted that the agreement positions CSL to expand its presence in the global ship repair and building market.
Maersk operates in over 130 countries, providing logistics services and working toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. CSL, a government-owned entity under India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, specializes in shipbuilding and repair, with facilities in multiple locations across India.