Overview
In April 2024, Lee Jae Myung visited India and met Narendra Modi. The talks revived high‑level political interaction and opened a new chapter for cooperation in the strategic shipbuilding sector.
Key Developments
- Several MoUs and agreements were signed between Indian and Korean firms.
- Hyundai’s subsidiary signed an MoU with Cochin Shipyard Limited and announced a $4 billion investment to build a green shipyard in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu.
- Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) partnered with Swan Defence and Heavy Industries to construct ships in India.
- The Korea Marine Equipment Association (KOMEA) opened an office in Mumbai to develop ancillary industries.
- India’s maritime financing arm, SFCL, was created to provide low‑cost, long‑term capital.
Important Facts
- The three Korean shipbuilders – SHI, HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering, and Hanwha Ocean – have already expressed interest in India.
- India’s Maritime Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 set explicit targets for global ranking.
- Complementary schemes – Maritime Development Fund, Shipbuilding Development Scheme, and Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy – are in place to attract foreign investment. <