Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has announced that it is considering establishing next-generation shipbuilding facilities in Kochi in collaboration with HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE). The proposal was presented by CSL’s Chairman and Managing Director, Madhu S. Nair, to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent visit.
The partnership aims to combine CSL’s existing infrastructure and domestic expertise with HD KSOE’s advanced technology and global experience. Under the memorandum of understanding (MoU), CSL’s 310-metre dry dock, inaugurated in January 2024, will be used to construct large vessels such as Suezmax tankers, container ships, and Capesize bulk carriers, with an annual capacity of up to six vessels.
To support this, a dedicated Block Fabrication Facility is planned on approximately 80 acres in Kochi, with a capacity of 1,20,000 MT annually and an investment of about INR 3,700 crore. CSL said the project is expected to generate around 2,000 direct jobs, while indirect employment could be two to five times higher across sectors such as logistics, MSMEs, supply chain, and ancillary industries.
The collaboration also provides for joint execution of shipbuilding projects at CSL’s existing facilities during the transition phase. Both companies will explore opportunities in new business areas, greenfield shipyards, and skill development.
The proposed initiative is aligned with Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, national plans that focus on modernisation of ports, shipbuilding, and long-term maritime growth.
In addition, CSL signed a second MoU with Guidance, the nodal agency of the Government of Tamil Nadu, for developing shipbuilding clusters. As part of this, CSL is considering a greenfield investment of about INR 15,000 crore to establish a shipyard in Tamil Nadu in collaboration with a Korean partner. The first phase of the project is expected to create around 10,000 jobs, including 4,000 direct and 6,000 indirect roles, and may also include a ship repair facility.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal and Minister of State Shantanu Thakur were present at the briefing where the plans were outlined.
CSL has previously undertaken major defence and commercial shipbuilding contracts, including India’s first Indigenous Aircraft Carrier, INS Vikrant. HD KSOE, part of HD Hyundai, is among the world’s largest shipbuilders, specialising in LNG carriers, offshore platforms, and high-value vessels.
