India and Japan have agreed to deepen their maritime relations.
This collaboration focuses on green and smart initiatives, aligning with both nations’ commitments to environmental sustainability and economic growth. During a bilateral meeting held in Guwahati on June 2, 2025, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways of India, Sarbananda Sonowal, and Japan’s Vice Minister for International Affairs in the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport & Tourism (MLITT), Terada Yoshimichi, discussed enhancing cooperation in ports, shipping, and waterway transport. The meeting underscored mutual interests in strengthening logistics, infrastructure, and connectivity to promote regional development and economic integration in the Indo-Pacific region.
This partnership is in line with India’s broader maritime strategy, which includes the Sagarmala Programme and the Maritime India Vision 2030. These initiatives aim to modernize port infrastructure, promote inland waterways, and enhance coastal shipping, thereby reducing congestion on road and rail networks and providing cost-effective and sustainable transport solutions.
A key component of this collaboration is the development of green shipping corridors. India has announced plans to establish its first Coastal Green Shipping Corridor along the Kandla-Tuticorin route, in partnership with the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), and V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VoCPA). This initiative aims to promote the use of low-emission fuels and technologies in maritime transport, contributing to the country’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.
Additionally, the Green Tug Transition Program (GTTP) has been launched to replace conventional fuel-based harbor tugs at major Indian ports with eco-friendly alternatives powered by sustainable fuels. The program targets a fully green tug fleet by 2040, which will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and minimize the environmental footprint of maritime operations.
The collaboration between India and Japan also extends to digitalization efforts in the maritime sector. Both nations are working towards the adoption of digital solutions to enhance the efficiency and safety of maritime operations. This includes the implementation of smart port technologies, digital platforms for logistics management, and data-driven decision-making processes.
Furthermore, India is seeking investment from Japanese ship manufacturers to establish shipbuilding and repair facilities in proposed mega shipbuilding parks along its coastline. This initiative aims to bolster India’s shipbuilding capabilities and position the country as a global leader in green shipbuilding.
In conclusion, the strengthened maritime ties between India and Japan, centered on green and smart initiatives, signify a shared commitment to sustainable development and regional cooperation. These efforts not only aim to enhance maritime connectivity and economic growth but also contribute to the global endeavor of reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmental sustainability in the maritime sector.
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