India’s ports sector is expected to record muted growth in FY26, with overall cargo traffic projected to increase by only around 2 per cent year-on-year, according to CareEdge Ratings. Container cargo is likely to outpace the trend, with growth estimated at nearly 8% during the period.
Major ports continue to handle about 57 per cent of total cargo volumes. An increase in container capacity, a steady trend towards containerisation, and rising coastal volumes of coal and iron ore are emerging as key drivers that could support growth over the medium term.
Broader infrastructure outlook
Sachin Gupta, Chief Rating Officer and Executive Director at CareEdge Ratings, said, “India’s infrastructure sector is at an inflection point, supported by proactive government policies, urbanisation, and private capital participation. While traditional segments like roads, power, and airports remain core growth drivers, the next wave will be led by energy storage, data centres, and green hydrogen. Addressing regulatory and execution challenges will be vital to sustain momentum and unlock the sector’s full potential.”
Between FY23 and FY25, overall traffic growth remained around 5 per cent, with container cargo emerging as an exception to the broader trend.