CMA CGM has signed a contract with Cochin Shipyard Limited to build six 1,700 TEU LNG-powered feeder containerships, reported India's Press Information Bureau.

The agreement was signed in New Delhi in the presence of senior officials, including Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shantanu Thakur and CMA CGM Chairman Rodolphe Saade. The vessels will be built in Kochi and registered under the Indian flag, adding to India's commercial shipbuilding order book.

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal stated that the project reflects India's ambition to become a leading maritime nation through sustainability and innovation. He highlighted the strategic partnership between India and France, noting recent visits by French President Emmanuel Macron as evidence of deepening ties.

Mr. Thakur mentioned that this milestone stemmed from Prime Minister Modi's visit to France in February 2025, where CMA CGM expressed interest in building ships in India. Following a Letter of Intent, Cochin Shipyard and CMA CGM finalized vessel specifications and commercial terms, leading to the formal contract. The project underscores growing confidence in India's shipbuilding capabilities.