DP World has expanded its Indian coastal shipping fleet with the acquisition of a 2,500 teu-plus containership, as the Dubai-based ports and logistics group builds out its domestic maritime network in one of its key growth markets.
The company’s marine services arm, Shipping Solutions, has taken over the DP World Indusa vessel dedicated to moving domestic container cargo between Indian ports. DP World said the ship will support more reliable and sustainable coastal cargo transport while reducing pressure on India’s road network.
The acquisition takes place against the backdrop of India’s push to shift more freight from road to sea and rail under its Maritime Vision 2030. Coastal shipping is being promoted as a way to reduce logistics costs, cut emissions and improve connectivity between manufacturing, industrial and consumption centres.
DP World’s coastal network in India now spans 14 ports and is served by a dedicated fleet of 10 vessels. The business handled more than 473,000 teu through its coastal shipping operations in 2025.
The DP World Indus has already made its maiden call at the South Container Terminal at Jeddah Islamic Port, which is operated by DP World. The company said the call underlines its strategy of linking ports and marine services more closely across regional trades.
Ganesh Raj, global chief operating officer for marine services at DP World, said India’s coastal shipping sector offers “a significant opportunity to improve supply chain efficiency and support sustainable economic growth”.
