Overview

• Rodolphe Saadé signed the letter of intent on October 14 for six feeder vessels valued at about $300 million.
• This is the first container-ship order placed by a global mainline operator at an Indian shipyard.
• The newbuilds support CMA CGM’s energy transition strategy, featuring LNG propulsion and readiness for lower‑carbon fuels.
• Cochin Shipyard will execute the project with technical cooperation from HD Hyundai Heavy Industries.
• A formal shipbuilding contract is expected in the coming months, as CMA CGM also moves to reflag four ships to India in 2025 and hire 1,000 Indian seafarers this year, supported by India’s Rs 69,725 crore shipbuilding push.