Global Maritime India Summit 2025 to be held in October

Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways announced the launch of Global Maritime India Summit, 2025, to be held in Mumbai from October 27-31 where representatives from 100 countries and 100,000 delegates are expected to participate in the event.

Sonowal was speaking in Mumbai at a conclave arranged to explain the highlights of Budget 2025 relating to the shipping industry.

"The target for all of us is very clear - join the league of top 10 ship makers globally by 2030 and top 5 by 20247," Sonowal said, urging industry participants to join in and make all efforts to drive ahead the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi of Viksit Bharat.

"By enhancing port performance and streamlining logistics, we are reducing inefficiencies, cutting carbon footprints, and strengthening India's position in global trade. Our commitment to modern, green, and smart port infrastructure will not only fuel economic resilience but also ensure a sustainable maritime future for generations to come. This is a transformative leap towards making India a maritime powerhouse, contributing to Atmanirbhar Bharat and a developed India by 2047," Sonowal said.

The minister also announced the launch of One Nation, One Port Process, an initiative to standardise and streamline operations across India’s major ports. "The step aims at removing inconsistencies in documentation and processes that led to inefficiencies, increased costs, and operational delays," says an official release.

A key announcement during the conclave was the official launch of Bharat Global Consortium to expand India’s maritime reach, strengthen supply chain, and boost Make in India. "Bringing together India Ports Global (IPGL) for operations, Sagarmala Development Company (SDCL) for finance, and Indian Port Rail & Ropeway Corporation (IPRCL) for infrastructure development, the consortium will drive port expansion, operations and financing to position India as a key player in international trade and logistics. By focusing on efficiency, innovation, and global collaboration, the consortium aims to improve trade connectivity and enhance India's economic footprint."

Various ports across the nation were awarded based on the methodology finalised under Sagar Ankalan to benchmark port performance, drive operational excellence, and strengthen India's trade connectivity. "Key performance indicators include cargo handling, turnaround time, berth idle time, container dwell time, and ship berth-day output."

The minister also launched the logo of Master Application for International Trade and Regulatory Interface (MAITRI). "MAITRI plays a crucial role in operationalising the Virtual Trade Corridor(VTC) between India and the UAE. The initiative aligns with the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) and is expected to expand to BIMSTEC and ASEAN nations, leveraging AI and Blockchain for efficiency and security. By standardising trade documentation and integrating digital solutions, MAITRI will reduce processing time, optimise trade flows, and contribute to sustainable development. MAITRI is set to redefine international trade, positioning India as a leader in global logistics and trade facilitation."

Sonowal said: "The launch of Bharat Ports Global Consortium and MAITRI app marks a transformative step in strengthening India’s maritime and trade ecosystem. These initiatives will sustain the initiatives taken since 2014, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to enhance efficiency, streamline trade processes and bolster global supply chains, reinforcing India’s position as a key player in international logistics. India is rapidly modernising its ports and trade infrastructure, aligning with his commitment to Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat. By leveraging digital innovation and global partnerships, we are creating a seamless, efficient, and future-ready trade network, accelerating India's journey towards becoming a global economic powerhouse."

Budget 2025 had announced the launch of Maritime Development Fund with a corpus of Rs 25,000 crore with 49 percent participation from the government and the remaining funds from ports and the private sector.

"We are aiming to create an ecosystem that is world-class, efficient and future-ready. Let’s capitalise this opportunity. Let’s build, innovate and collaborate. Together, we are not just shaping India’s maritime future—we are shaping India’s economic destiny," Sonowal said.