India and Japan look into collaborations to boost maritime industry

Amongst the topics discussed was shipyard partnerships.

India and Japan have conducted bilateral talks to enhance their maritime relations.

In a statement, India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said the discussions covered investment by Japanese Shipyards, collaboration on port digitisation and green port initiatives, an increase in R&D cooperation, upskilling human resources, and employment of Indian seafarers in Japan.

Both governments also discussed using sustainable technologies, disaster-resilient infrastructure, and enhanced connectivity to enable Andaman Nicobar islands and Lakswadeep islands to be converted into Smart Islands.

“Japan’s expertise in shipbuilding and ship repair is well recognised, and I see great scope for collaboration in this area. We also invite Japan’s Big Three maritime companies—NYK Line, MOL, and K Line—to explore joint ventures and investment opportunities in India’s growing maritime sector,” said India’s Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.  

“Collaboration on port digitisation and green port initiatives will further strengthen the resilience and sustainability of our maritime logistics network,” he added.

On upskilling and employment, Sonowal said India currently has 154,000 trained seafarers who can support Japan’s maritime workforce.