Growing global interest in India’s shipbuilding sector presents a significant opportunity, but the country’s ability to rapidly expand capacity and execute projects efficiently will determine whether it can emerge as a major global shipbuilding hub, according to maritime research and advisory firm Drewry Maritime Advisors.
Speaking during a webinar, Drewry executives noted that foreign investors are actively evaluating opportunities in Indian shipyards amid the government’s strong push to develop the domestic shipbuilding industry. However, they emphasized that investor confidence will depend on the industry’s ability to deliver projects on time, scale up infrastructure, and build a robust supply chain capable of supporting large commercial shipbuilding programmes.
According to Drewry, India has the potential to become an attractive alternative in the global shipbuilding market, particularly as international shipowners seek to diversify their sourcing beyond traditional shipbuilding nations. Realizing this opportunity, however, will require faster project execution, modernization of shipyard facilities, and sustained investments across the entire maritime manufacturing ecosystem.
Industry experts also highlighted the importance of developing a skilled workforce, strengthening ancillary industries, and ensuring policy continuity to enhance India’s competitiveness. Efficient execution and timely delivery of vessels will be critical in building credibility with global customers and attracting long-term investments into the sector.
With the government targeting a larger share of the global shipbuilding market through policy support and infrastructure development, analysts believe India has a window of opportunity to position itself as a key global shipbuilding destination, provided execution challenges are addressed effectively.