India and South Korea Strengthen Maritime Cooperation Amid State Visit
During a significant meeting on April 20, 2026, Indian Prime Minister H.E. Shri Narendra Modi and South Korean President H.E. Mr. Lee Jae Myung discussed a future of enhanced cooperation in maritime sectors. This dialogue, which took place during President Lee’s state visit to India, focused on shipbuilding, shipping, and maritime logistics—areas where both nations have complementary strengths and aspirations.
Both India and South Korea have long and rich maritime traditions, making their partnership vital. With India’s economy rapidly expanding, the maritime industry has become a cornerstone for national security and prosperity. The two leaders recognized that India’s Maritime Amrit Kaal 2047 Vision creates numerous opportunities for collaboration, particularly with South Korea’s established shipbuilding capabilities.
Collaborative Opportunities Ahead
The discussions highlighted India’s intent to develop large-scale greenfield shipbuilding clusters backed by the Government of India’s Shipbuilding Development Scheme. Indian representatives welcomed leading South Korean shipbuilders to play significant roles in these projects through their expertise in design and manufacturing, aiming to transform the bilateral relationship into tangible economic benefits.
Significant progress has already been made with the signing of a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) between HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering Co., Ltd and the Maritime Development Fund for the joint development of a new shipyard in southern India. Both nations are optimistic about the project’s early implementation.
Boosting Shipbuilding and Port Development
India also unveiled plans for a considerable acquisition of over 400 vessels valued at approximately Rs. 2.2 lakh crore (around USD 25 billion) during the India Maritime Week 2025. The leaders agreed that this demand signifies a perfect opportunity for both Indian and South Korean industries to establish an effective framework for collaboration.
In addition, the two sides are eager for Korean investment in upgrading existing Indian shipyards, with particular attention to a new Block Fabrication Facility being built in southern India designed to enhance the construction of large vessels.
Skill Development and Maritime Heritage
Skill training in the shipbuilding sector will also be a focal point of collaboration, realizing significant capacity building through a project orchestrated by the Korea International Cooperation Agency in conjunction with India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
The two nations also stressed the importance of India’s expanding seafarer pool—approximately 320,000 skilled seafarers—which could provide valuable manpower for Korean-owned vessels.
Future of India-ROK Maritime Relations
The summit concluded with a strong commitment to deepening maritime ties, with both leaders expressing satisfaction about the recent progress. They signed an MOU focused on port development, establishing pathways for Korean developers to engage in India’s upcoming infrastructure projects worth around USD 13.3 billion.
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