SEOUL : Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal held a meeting with Mr. Choi Sung-an, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI), in Seoul to explore opportunities for strengthening India–South Korea cooperation in shipbuilding and advancing a strategic partnership in the maritime sector.
During the meeting, the Minister invited Samsung Heavy Industries, one of the leading players in the global shipbuilding industry, to expand its footprint in India by participating in the development of the country’s upcoming greenfield mega shipbuilding clusters. The proposed collaboration aims to bring together India’s growing maritime ambitions and Samsung’s world-class engineering capabilities to support advanced shipbuilding, technological innovation and the development of a globally competitive maritime manufacturing ecosystem.
The discussions underscore India’s efforts to strengthen its domestic shipbuilding capabilities, attract international investment and position itself as a major global hub for shipbuilding and maritime manufacturing. Collaboration with established international shipbuilders could facilitate the adoption of advanced vessel-design technologies, modern construction practices, specialised technical expertise and globally competitive production standards.
The proposed greenfield shipbuilding clusters are expected to play an important role in developing integrated maritime industrial ecosystems, bringing together shipyards, component manufacturers, equipment suppliers, technology providers and supporting industries. Such clusters can also create opportunities for skill development, employment generation, technology transfer and greater participation by Indian enterprises in global maritime supply chains.
Samsung Heavy Industries’ expertise in complex vessel construction, offshore engineering and advanced marine technologies could complement India’s long-term maritime development objectives. A stronger partnership could open avenues for cooperation in next-generation vessels, energy-efficient ship designs and technologies supporting the transition towards greener and more sustainable shipping.
The engagement reflects India’s broader ambition to leverage international partnerships, strengthen industrial capabilities and enhance its competitiveness in the global maritime sector. By aligning the country’s maritime vision with South Korea’s established shipbuilding expertise, India seeks to create new opportunities for investment, innovation and sustainable industrial growth.
The meeting marks an important step in exploring deeper India–South Korea maritime cooperation, with a focus on building a modern, technologically advanced and globally connected shipbuilding ecosystem in India.
