DP World Expands Coastal Fleet with Acquisition of India-Flagged Container Vessel DP World Indus

The addition of DP World Indus expands DP World’s coastal shipping capabilities, enabling more reliable, efficient and environmentally sustainable container transportation between key Indian ports. The vessel is expected to support the shift of cargo from road to sea, easing highway congestion while improving supply chain resilience and reducing carbon emissions.   DP World’s Shipping Solutions currently operates a dedicated coastal network spanning 14 Indian ports with a fleet of 10 vessels. In 2025, the business handled more than 473,000 TEUs through its coastal shipping services, reflecting growing demand for multimodal logistics solutions across the country.   The newly acquired vessel also marked a significant milestone by making its maiden call at DP World’s Jeddah South Container Terminal, highlighting the company’s strategy of integrating its ports and marine services to strengthen regional and international trade connectivity.      Ganesh Raj, Global Chief Operating Officer, Marine Services, DP World, said India’s coastal shipping sector offers immense potential to improve supply chain efficiency while supporting sustainable economic growth. He noted that the acquisition of the India-flagged DP World Indus reflects the company’s commitment to strengthening domestic maritime connectivity and delivering dependable, high-quality services that connect businesses and markets across India.      Coastal shipping is increasingly being recognised as a key component of India’s multimodal logistics strategy, offering lower emissions, improved cargo movement efficiency and reduced dependence on long-haul road transportation. By connecting major manufacturing, industrial and consumption centres along India’s coastline, DP World Indus is expected to play an important role in enhancing the country’s logistics network.      The acquisition aligns with DP World’s broader investment strategy in India, where the company continues to expand its presence across ports, terminals, logistics infrastructure and integrated supply chain solutions.

Earlier this year, DP World published its report, “Enhancing India’s Ship Registry: Pathways to Global Competitiveness,” outlining a roadmap to transform India’s ship registry into a globally competitive and sustainable platform. The report recommends reforms in governance, fiscal incentives, international outreach and green shipping initiatives to support the country’s Maritime Vision 2030 and its ambition to emerge as a global maritime hub.      Further reinforcing its commitment to coastal shipping, DP World’s Shipping Solutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) last year with Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited (SMFC), under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, to jointly develop and expand sustainable coastal and short-sea shipping services across India.