Global shipping firms boost India-focused services, cutting transit times and supporting rising exports projected to hit $435 billion.
India is rapidly strengthening its position in global trade, with shipping giants scaling up operations to cater to its surging export demands. Amid China’s economic slowdown, major players like Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd, MSC, and CMA CGM are enhancing India-focused routes and services, marking a pivotal shift in global logistics.
India’s merchandise exports saw a remarkable 17% year-on-year growth in October, with total exports projected to touch $435 billion by the end of the fiscal year. To sustain this momentum, shipping lines are introducing new services. Starting February, Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd will roll out dedicated shuttle routes under their Gemini network, significantly cutting India-Europe transit times by up to three days.
CMA CGM and MSC are also expanding, with CMA CGM launching new Asian and Middle Eastern routes, while MSC strengthens its Asia-Mediterranean corridor. This expansion is expected to improve connectivity for Indian ports like Mundra, Nhava Sheva, and Ennore with key European hubs, including Rotterdam, Hamburg, and London Gateway.
Ajay Sahai, CEO of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), emphasised that evolving global trade dynamics and new avenues like Arctic routes present both challenges and opportunities for India. Improved trade lanes are set to reduce freight costs and enhance reliability, with Maersk aiming to boost service reliability from 53% to 90%.
As India emerges as a vital trade hub, competition intensifies in the containerised trade sector, where MSC and CMA CGM command nearly 40% market share. With expanded capacity, better predictability, and reduced delays, these advancements will not only bolster India’s export efficiency but also solidify its standing in global trade.
