Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025 in Mumbai on Tuesday, reaffirming India’s commitment to becoming a global maritime hub and a leading player in the blue economy. The week-long event, hosted at the NESCO Exhibition Centre, brings together over 85 countries, maritime CEOs, and international delegates to explore avenues of cooperation in trade, technology, and sustainable ocean development.
Addressing the Maritime Leaders Conclave, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the crucial role of India’s maritime sector in shaping the nation’s economic future. He highlighted that maritime trade handles nearly 95% of India’s international trade volume and 70% of its trade value, underlining the need for continuous modernization of ports and shipping infrastructure.
“India is positioning itself as a key pillar in global maritime logistics and the blue economy. With initiatives like Sagarmala, Maritime India Vision 2047, and PM Gati Shakti, we are creating world-class ports, promoting green shipping, and enabling seamless logistics,” the Prime Minister said.
The Global Maritime CEO Forum, chaired by PM Modi, served as a platform for discussions on green fuel adoption, maritime digitization, and global port connectivity. Top executives from leading shipping and port management companies, including DP World, Maersk, and Adani Ports, participated in the dialogue to strengthen India’s role in international trade corridors.
The event also showcased India’s growing focus on sustainable maritime practices, including investment in renewable port energy, indigenous shipbuilding, and skill development under the Maritime Capacity Enhancement Program. Several MoUs were signed with international partners to promote blue economy innovation, coastal security cooperation, and port-based industrialization.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal noted that IMW 2025 aligns with India’s goal of achieving carbon-neutral ports by 2040 and developing smart port cities powered by digital technology. He further announced new policy frameworks to support private investment and ship recycling initiatives.
Experts at the conclave highlighted the strategic importance of India’s coastline, stretching over 7,500 kilometers, and its proximity to key global shipping lanes. With the implementation of green corridors and expansion of major port capacities, India is expected to emerge as a critical maritime partner in the Indo-Pacific region.
India Maritime Week 2025 will continue till November 2, featuring exhibitions, startup showcases, and panel discussions on topics such as maritime finance, ocean governance, and blue tech innovation. The event is expected to set the roadmap for India’s next phase of maritime transformation.
