Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha has agreed in principle with GAIL (India) Limited and J M Baxi Group for joint ownership of an LNG carrier under construction at Samsung Heavy Industries. On delivery, the 174,000 m³ vessel will operate under a long-term charter with GAIL. Measuring about 290 metres with a service speed of 19.5 knots, the project strengthens regional energy shipping ties and strategic maritime collaboration in Asia.

Vijay Kumar, Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, reviewed performance at the Chennai Port Authority and inaugurated infrastructure upgrades worth ₹54.27 crore. Key projects included a ₹29.8 crore passenger terminal for Andaman and Nicobar travellers, a ₹22.58 crore indigenous Vessel Traffic Monitoring System and new navigational aids. Work also began on refurbishing Port Gate 2. Emphasising alignment with Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, Kumar assessed operational challenges and explored opportunities to enhance efficiency, safety and commercial growth at the port.

The government has revoked the partial relaxation of India’s cabotage regime, reinstating restrictions that reserve coastal trade for Indian-flagged vessels, effective three months from January 21. After consultations and a DG Shipping review, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways concluded that the 2018 relaxations failed to cut transshipment, reduce costs, or boost Indian container capacity. Persistent dependence on foreign carriers, stagnant domestic fleets and higher freight costs prompted the rollback, aligning with Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 and upcoming initiatives like the Bharat Container Shipping Line.

India and Russia are intensifying efforts to deepen trade and connectivity following agreements at a recent bilateral trade forum, targeting US$100 billion in trade by 2030. The focus is on transport links, port infrastructure and maritime corridors, including upgrades to the INSTC and the East Maritime Corridor linking Vladivostok and Chennai. Alignment of national maritime strategies, port expansion and multimodal logistics are expected to boost capacity, with success hinging on efficiency, digitalisation and sustainable planning.

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd reported higher cargo volumes in December 2025, handling 41.9 MMT, up 9% year-on-year, led by an 18% rise in container traffic. For April–December 2025, total throughput reached 367.3 MMT, an 11% increase, with containers growing 21%. Rail-linked container movement remained steady in December, while GPWIS volumes dipped. Cumulatively, rail logistics rose 11%, highlighting APSEZ’s focus on container expansion and multimodal connectivity.