A high-level delegation from the Government of Tamil Nadu, which is partnering with HD Hyundai to establish a new shipyard in India, visited the Ulsan shipyard of HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in South Korea as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation in shipbuilding.
HD Hyundai announced on January 8 that the delegation included T. R. B. Rajaa, Minister for Industries, Government of Tamil Nadu, Gaurav Daga, Executive Director of the Tamil Nadu Guidance Bureau, along with three other senior officials. The visit follows the exclusive business agreement signed in December between HD Hyundai and the Tamil Nadu government for the development of a new shipyard in the state.
The initiative aligns with India’s ‘Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047’, under which the country aims to emerge as a global hub for shipbuilding and shipping. In line with this vision, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) has identified Tamil Nadu as one of five potential locations for the establishment of a major shipbuilding cluster.
During the visit, the delegation toured both commercial and specialised shipyards at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, closely observing live shipbuilding operations. They also reviewed critical shipyard management capabilities, including advanced automation systems and next-generation production technologies.
Minister T. R. B. Rajaa said that collaboration with HD Hyundai, the world’s leading shipbuilder, would help lay a strong foundation for India’s shipbuilding ecosystem. He added that the partnership would generate high-quality employment and position Tamil Nadu as a key driver in the revival of India’s shipbuilding industry, while also deepening bilateral cooperation.
Choi Han-nae, Head of the Planning Division at HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HDKSOE), noted that the visit reflects India’s strong commitment to nurturing its shipbuilding sector. He said that enhanced cooperation with India in shipbuilding and marine industries would create significant opportunities to expand the market and strengthen long-term partnerships.
The visit marks an important step in advancing the proposed shipyard project and reinforcing strategic ties between India and South Korea in the maritime and shipbuilding sectors.
