Pratik Bijlani –
French shipping major CMA CGM has reflagged its fifth container vessel under the Indian registry, reinforcing India’s growing position as an attractive maritime hub for global fleet operators. The latest vessel, CMA CGM VILA DO CONDE, has now been registered under the Indian flag after previously sailing under the Maltese registry.
The vessel, with a carrying capacity of 2,592 TEUs, is expected to strengthen service efficiency across key regional trade routes while supporting the company’s expanding operations in India. The move forms part of CMA CGM’s broader strategy to deepen its long-term presence in one of the world’s fastest-growing trade markets. The company has also indicated that a sixth vessel is expected to join its India-flagged fleet by the end of May.
The reflagging trend comes as India intensifies efforts to expand its national tonnage and reduce reliance on foreign-controlled shipping capacity. Under initiatives such as Maritime India Vision 2030, India has introduced incentives including tax benefits, easier financing access, and regulatory support to encourage vessel registration under the Indian flag.
Industry observers note that Indian-flagged vessels can benefit from operational advantages such as priority berthing at major ports including Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, Mundra Port and Vizhinjam Port, helping improve turnaround times and supply chain efficiency.
CMA CGM’s growing India focus also extends beyond shipping, with investments in inland logistics and plans for new India-flagged LNG-powered feeder vessels from Cochin Shipyard Limited. The latest reflagging highlights rising confidence among global carriers in India’s maritime ecosystem and its ambition to emerge as a stronger global shipping nation.
Marex Media