CMA CGM formalizes an agreement for the construction of container ships with Cochin Shipyard, presented as a structural first for the Indian shipbuilding industry: the finalization follows a letter of intent signed in October 2025, and is part of a broader sequence of industrial policies, with India having activated a financial support mechanism for shipbuilding thru its relevant ministry (scheme announced in December).
For CMA CGM, the interest goes beyond symbolism. Diversifying and securing construction capacities in a context where global order books remain highly contested is a strategic lever: delivery schedule, industrial conditions, and the ability to integrate specifications adapted to future market constraints (energy performance, regulatory compliance, etc.). For India, the logic is clear: move upmarket to become a credible player in high-value-added commercial segments, beyond traditional activities.
In the background, this type of agreement influences the overall logistics chain: shipbuilding determines the capacity available in the medium term. For shippers and forwarders, this matters because decisions made today about the fleet will translate tomorrow into the level of pressure on capacity, and thus into the dynamics of freight and surcharges.
