India is taking decisive steps to enhance its global maritime presence by investing in and managing key ports and terminals across Asia and Africa. Spearheaded by Indian Ports Global Ltd (IPGL) and supported by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, these initiatives are intended to advance India’s geopolitical, economic, and strategic goals—while counterbalancing China’s influence in the same regions.
Current efforts focus on scaling up operations at Chabahar Port in Iran, expanding into Tanzania in Africa, and strengthening connectivity through Myanmar and Sri Lanka.
Strengthening Strategic Maritime Links via Chabahar Port
India’s flagship overseas port project, Chabahar Port in Iran, remains a focal point of its international port operations. Managed by IPGL, the Shahid Beheshti terminal is vital for India’s trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia, and serves as a crucial node in the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
The port handled 64,245 TEUs by January FY25, a massive jump from just 9,126 TEUs in FY23, and is expected to reach 100,000 TEUs by FY26. India plans to invest ₹4,000 crore to quintuple its capacity to 500,000 TEUs, install new mobile harbor cranes, and add a second berth. Although profitability is not immediate, sustained operations and aggressive marketing are expected to secure long-term viability.
Targeting Africa: Tanzania as the Next Key Investment Hub
India has identified Tanzania as a prime candidate for expansion, with IPGL and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) signing multiple MoUs to develop industrial parks, SEZs, and port infrastructure. Cochin Shipyard has also partnered with Tanzania’s Marine Services Co Ltd to boost marine cooperation.
India’s focus includes both major ports like Dar es Salaam, Tanga, and Mtwara, and minor ports such as Lindi, Bagamoyo, and Kilwa Masoko. Notably, Adani Ports already operates Container Terminal No. 2 at Dar es Salaam and holds a 95% stake in Tanzania International Container Terminal Services. These investments are part of a broader strategy to tap into Africa’s growing trade potential and secure India’s place as a key logistics player on the continent.
Expanding Regional Connectivity through Myanmar and Sri Lanka
Beyond Africa and West Asia, India is also improving maritime connectivity in its immediate neighborhood. The Sittwe Port in Myanmar, developed under the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Project, links India to Bangladesh, Southeast Asia, and Thailand, enhancing both commercial and strategic access.
In Sri Lanka, IPGL has launched port operations and ferry services between Nagapattinam and Kankesanthurai, fostering bilateral trade and regional maritime passenger movement. These initiatives aim to deepen India’s influence in the Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean Region.
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Source: maritime gateway
