India approves $1.05bn scheme to break China’s dominance on container manufacturing

The Union Cabinet has approved the ₹10,000 crore (around $1.05bn) Container Manufacturing Promotion Scheme to expand domestic production and reduce dependence on imported shipping containers. The scheme comes as the government looks to build a stronger domestic maritime ecosystem.

China dominates the global container manufacturing industry, accounting for more than 90% of world supply. By developing a competitive domestic container manufacturing ecosystem, the government aims to strengthen India’s position in international trade while supporting the broader Make in India initiative.

The scheme was announced in the Union Budget 2026-27, and has a total outlay of Rs.10,000 crore over 13 years, up to FY 2039-40. It will support new manufacturing facilities and the expansion of existing container manufacturing units.

With incentives for manufacturing, quality testing, infrastructure and operational costs, the scheme aims to make Indian-made containers globally competitive.

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