Cochin Shipyard Signs Contract To Build LNG Dual-Fuel Vessels For French Shipping Giant

Kochi: Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has signed a major contract with French shipping company CMA CGM to build six LNG dual-fuel feeder container vessels, a move expected to strengthen India’s presence in global shipbuilding and support cleaner maritime transport.

In a statement, CSL said the shipbuilding contract was signed in New Delhi on Wednesday for the construction of six 1,700 TEU vessels powered by dual-fuel engines capable of running on liquefied natural gas (LNG). The agreement was signed by CSL Chairman and Managing Director Jose V J and CMA CGM Chairman and CEO Rodolphe Saade.

The signing ceremony was attended by Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shantanu Thakur, Shipping Secretary Vijay Kumar, senior ministry officials and representatives from both organisations.

CSL said the contract reflects international confidence in the shipyard’s technical capability and project execution. It described the deal as an important step in expanding its global footprint in advanced and environmentally responsible shipbuilding.

CSL said this will be the first large series of LNG dual-fuel feeder container ships built by CSL for a major European container operator. The vessels are designed to reduce emissions compared to conventional fuel ships and will include energy-efficient systems and optimised hull design.

The company said LNG is emerging as a transitional marine fuel as global shipping lines increasingly prefer dual-fuel vessels to meet stricter environmental regulations.

CSL added that the agreement would strengthen its entry into the global container shipbuilding market, enhance its expertise in LNG propulsion technology and boost export orders, contributing to India’s shipbuilding and economic goals