Maritime sector drives India's economic surge as 95% of its trade moves through sea routes

Maritime sector is the backbone of India's global trade and growth story as nearly 95 per cent of the country’s trade by volume, and about 70 percent by value, moves through maritime routes, according to official data.

- BY S VENKAT NARAYAN

This underlines the sector's centrality to India's economy and competitiveness. From crude oil and coal to electronics, textiles, and farm goods, most of India's imports and exports pass through its ports. This makes the efficiency of maritime transport vital for national competitiveness and global integration.

To strengthen this lifeline, India has implemented the Maritime India Vision 2030 (MIV 2030), a comprehensive roadmap featuring more than 150 initiatives with an investment projection of INR3-3.5 trillion. Supported by a Rs 69,725 crore package for shipbuilding, the plan aims to modernise ports, expand shipping capacity, and boost inland waterways.