French shipping giant CMA CGM has taken a major step toward decarbonizing its regional fleet and supporting India’s growing maritime manufacturing capacity by signing a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) to construct six dual-fuel LNG-powered containerships.
The new vessels, each with a capacity of approximately 1,700 TEU, will be registered under the Indian flag and are scheduled for delivery between 2029 and 2031. This order marks the first time CMA CGM has commissioned LNG-fueled vessels from an Indian shipyard, underscoring the company’s confidence in India’s evolving shipbuilding expertise and aligning with the nation’s Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiatives.
Strategic Partnership for Cleaner Shipping
Under the agreement, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) of South Korea will provide technical collaboration and design support, ensuring the vessels meet international standards for energy efficiency and operational performance. The ships will be equipped with dual-fuel engines, capable of operating on both liquefied natural gas (LNG) and conventional marine fuels.
LNG propulsion can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 20%, virtually eliminate sulfur oxides, and significantly cut particulate matter and nitrogen oxides—helping CMA CGM move closer to its net-zero carbon target by 2050.
“Partnering with Cochin Shipyard represents not only a milestone for CMA CGM but also a vote of confidence in India’s shipbuilding potential,” a company spokesperson said. “These vessels are part of our broader commitment to advancing sustainable shipping solutions and strengthening our presence in key regional trades.”
Boost for India’s Maritime Industry
For Cochin Shipyard, one of India’s leading shipbuilding and repair facilities, the deal is a landmark achievement. It positions India to join the select group of nations capable of building LNG-fueled containerships, a segment previously dominated by East Asian shipyards.
Officials from India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways welcomed the agreement, noting that it reinforces the government’s Maritime India Vision 2030, which aims to enhance domestic shipbuilding, create high-skill employment, and promote green shipping technologies.
“This collaboration showcases India’s ability to deliver complex, high-value vessels for global operators,” said CSL Chairman and Managing Director Madhu S Nair. “It’s a proud moment that highlights our shipyard’s engineering capabilities and our country’s progress toward sustainable maritime growth.”
CMA CGM’s Expanding Green Fleet
CMA CGM has been a pioneer in adopting LNG propulsion across its global fleet. As of 2025, the group operates or has on order more than 120 LNG- and methanol-ready vessels, representing one of the largest alternative-fuel fleets in the world.
The company continues to invest in decarbonization technologies, including bio-methane, e-methane, and carbon capture systems, as part of a long-term transition to cleaner energy sources.
A Turning Point for South Asia
The Cochin order is seen as a strategic turning point for South Asia’s maritime manufacturing sector. With increasing global demand for green vessels, India’s ability to secure contracts from a world leader like CMA CGM enhances its reputation as a competitive, sustainable shipbuilding hub.
The six-vessel program is expected to create hundreds of jobs, boost local supply chains, and strengthen India’s position in the global shipbuilding value network.
About CMA CGM:
Headquartered in Marseille, France, CMA CGM is the world’s third-largest container shipping company, operating more than 620 vessels serving over 420 ports across 160 countries.
About Cochin Shipyard:
Located in Kochi, India, Cochin Shipyard Limited is a premier shipbuilding and repair facility under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. It has delivered a wide range of vessels, including tankers, bulk carriers, passenger ships, and specialized defense vessels.
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