India seeks South Korean investment for maritime and shipbuilding growth

Indian Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal is conducting a four-day visit to South Korea to promote India’s maritime potential and strengthen industrial ties. During a high-level ministerial roundtable in Busan for World Maritime Day, Sonowal advocated for universal maritime standards that remain ambitious while allowing for implementation based on national circumstances, technology, and access to finance.

Sonowal encouraged South Korean firms to invest in India’s shipbuilding, ship repair, and logistics sectors, supporting the Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. He highlighted the VOYAGES framework, established during a previous state visit, as a platform for professional growth and bilateral cooperation. The Minister also called on Indian professionals currently working in South Korea’s advanced shipbuilding ecosystem to mentor local talent and transfer global best practices to India.

To bolster its maritime infrastructure, India has implemented several policy changes, including five maritime laws that took effect in March 2026 and the expansion of the Maritime Single Window to cover 69 ports and terminals. Sonowal emphasized that the goal of international cooperation is to build permanent national capability rather than creating continuing dependence.