India’s position in global trade is rapidly strengthening, with shipping companies scaling up operations to support its growing export sector. As China’s economic slowdown influences global logistics, major shipping lines are increasingly focusing on expanding their routes and services in India. Companies such as Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd, MSC, and CMA CGM are responding to this shift, launching new routes and enhancing services to meet the rising demand for export efficiency.
India’s merchandise export growth saw a notable 17% year-on-year increase in October, with total exports expected to reach $435 billion by the end of this fiscal year. To support this growth, global shipping giants are stepping up their capacity and reducing transit times. Starting February, Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd will introduce new dedicated and shuttle routes under their Gemini network. MSC plans to strengthen its Mediterranean-Asia route, while CMA CGM has already launched an Asian route calling at India and may soon add routes to the Middle East. Ajay Sahai, Director General and CEO of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), highlighted that shifting global logistics dynamics, including geopolitical competition and new trade avenues like Arctic routes, are reshaping the industry. This shift offers both challenges and opportunities, particularly in reducing freight costs for exporters. The expansion of India-EU trade lanes is one of the most significant developments. Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd’s new services will cut transit times between India and Europe by up to three days, providing a more efficient route for exporters. The addition of 4-5% capacity annually will connect Indian ports such as Mundra, Nhava Sheva, and Ennore with key European hubs like Rotterdam, Hamburg, and London Gateway, improving trade efficiency.
The demand for more reliable services is also evident. Maersk’s Gemini network aims to improve its reliability from 53% to 90% once fully operational, offering better predictability and reducing the risk of delays and additional costs for exporters. Maersk anticipates that the improved India-EU network could increase its market share by 4-5%. Competition remains fierce, especially in the India-Europe containerized trade sector, where MSC and CMA CGM together control 35-40% of the market. MSC has already increased its capacity for refrigerated cargo and launched its Asia-Mediterranean Network 2025, while CMA CGM continues to enhance its services with the updated Epic Service and the new Asia Subcontinent Express 2 (AS2) route, connecting key Asian ports with Indian hubs like Mundra and Nhava Sheva. As India’s trade relations evolve, with the US becoming the largest trading partner and the EU contributing significantly to exports, the demand for efficient, cost-effective shipping solutions is paramount. Experts believe that these expanded services will help India capitalize on its growing export potential, secure better rates, and reduce transit times, bolstering the country’s position in global trade.
