Ports

India scraps vessel licensing requirement to boost maritime operations

India has eliminated a licensing requirement for foreign-flag container vessels operating through entities registered in GIFT City, Gujarat. This change signals a more open approach to maritime regulation and reflects New Delhi's strategy to leverage shipping for economic growth. Multiple mainline and shortsea operators including CMA CGM, Maersk, and Unifeeder maintain operations at GIFT City, which offers significant tax advantages and regulatory benefits. CMA CGM has reflagged six vessels in India, while Maersk completed two reflagging operations. The French carrier emphasized India's strategic importance to its global operations, citing the nation's growing role in international trade. MSC and Hapag-Lloyd have signaled intentions to pursue similar tonnage development initiatives. The regulatory change eliminates substantial documentation previously required for each port call, streamlining the ease-of-doing-business environment for international shipping lines.