India sets sights on entering Global Container Shipping Market
NEW DELHI : India is making its first foray into the international container shipping market by engaging top consultants to conduct research and draft a strategic plan. This move marks a potential shift in the country’s ambitions within this vast industry.
Container Corporation of India Limited (CONCOR) , a leading public sector enterprise in India’s logistics industry, under the Ministry of Railways, is going to lead. CONCOR specializes in containerised freight transportation, operating through a multimodal approach that integrates rail and road services. A total of 66 Container Terminals of CONCOR exist at vantage locations across the country in addition to 380 owned Container Trains, over 48,000 owned 20ft ISO grade shipping containers, and over 4 million square feet of warehouse space in India.
The initial focus will be on the Middle East and South Asia, with the study examining market potential, attractiveness, required resources, financial aspects, and steps to establish a competitive foothold in the international container shipping market. The report will also identify potential service routes and key market segments to enable CONCOR to launch its operations as a shipping line.
With a focus on container shipping, the consultant is being asked to do a thorough analysis of the shipping sectors in India, South Asia, the Middle East, and the rest of the world. Along with identifying market leaders, their tactics, and market shares, the study will also assess current participants in the shipping line services industry and maritime regulations. The document stated that this should eventually allow CONCOR position itself in the competitive landscape to establish itself in the international shipping sector (e.g., partnerships, acquisitions, or independent operations.
The consultant will also develop an operational model for CONCOR’s shipping services, covering fleet acquisition strategies—whether through new purchases, leasing, or buy-and-lease options—along with port infrastructure, route planning, and seamless integration with CONCOR’s existing logistics network. Additionally, the report will address potential risks associated with entering the shipping line industry, such as fluctuating fuel prices, geopolitical challenges, and port congestion. The final report is expected to be released in 2025..