The Andhra Pradesh government has invited South Korean maritime manufacturers and shipbuilding companies to invest in the proposed ₹30,000 crore Dugarajapatnam Shipbuilding Cluster, as part of its strategy to establish the state as a major hub for shipbuilding, ship repair, and maritime manufacturing.
The proposed cluster at Dugarajapatnam is envisioned as an integrated maritime industrial ecosystem featuring shipyards, marine equipment manufacturing units, component suppliers, repair and maintenance facilities, logistics infrastructure, and skill development centres. The project is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening India’s domestic shipbuilding capabilities while reducing reliance on imported marine equipment.
State officials highlighted Andhra Pradesh’s strategic coastline, port infrastructure, and industrial policies as key advantages for global investors. The government is offering a range of incentives, including industrial land, infrastructure support, and policy assistance, to attract leading international shipbuilders and maritime technology companies.
South Korea, home to some of the world’s largest shipbuilding and marine engineering firms, has been identified as a key investment partner due to its expertise in advanced shipbuilding technologies, offshore engineering, marine equipment manufacturing, and smart ship solutions. Collaboration with Korean companies is expected to facilitate technology transfer, enhance local manufacturing capabilities, and develop a globally competitive maritime supply chain in India.
The Dugarajapatnam Shipbuilding Cluster is expected to support the construction of commercial vessels, specialised ships, offshore structures, and defence-related platforms, while also creating facilities for ship repair and retrofitting. The project is anticipated to generate significant employment opportunities and encourage the growth of ancillary industries, including steel fabrication, marine electronics, heavy engineering, and logistics.
The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s broader vision to strengthen the maritime sector under programmes such as Maritime India Vision 2030 and the “Make in India” initiative. By attracting global investment and advanced technologies, the state aims to position Dugarajapatnam as a world-class shipbuilding destination capable of serving both domestic and international markets.
Industry experts believe the proposed cluster could significantly enhance India’s competitiveness in the global shipbuilding industry by expanding production capacity, fostering innovation, and integrating local manufacturers into international maritime supply chains. If successful, the project is expected to contribute to export growth, industrial development, and the long-term expansion of India’s blue economy.
