Mumbai, 18 July 2023

“The Global Maritime India Summit 2023 will serve as a platform to showcase global best practices, foster investment partnerships, and chart a new and bright course for our collective future” said Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Shri. Sarbananda Sonowal. He was speaking at the curtain raiser event of Global Maritime India Summit (GIMS), 2023 here in Mumbai today. Also present on the occasion were Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Tourism, Shri. Shripad Naik, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India, Shri Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Chairman -Indian Ports Association & Mumbai Port Authority, Shri Rajiv Jalota and Secretary General, FICCI, Shri Shailesh Pathak.

Addressing the Curtain Raiser for the upcoming Global Maritime India Summit 2023, Shri. Sarbananda Sonowal said “Building upon a decade of work under the dynamic leadership of our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, today, I am happy to announce the 3rd edition of the Global Maritime India Summit 2023 -  a global platform that will serve as a catalyst for investment, collaboration, innovation, and promotion of opportunities in India’s maritime sector. The summit will witness the convergence of global maritime players, policymakers, regulators, investors, and other stakeholders who are integral to the growth of the industry. Through thematic sessions, thought-provoking discussions, technological showcases, and interactive exhibitions, the Global Maritime India Summit 2023 will foster meaningful partnerships and drive innovation in the maritime industry. Together, let us embark on this incredible journey towards making India a maritime powerhouse – an embodiment of progress, sustainability, and global leadership.”

Referring to India’s maritime sector, Shri Sonowal further added, “India's maritime sector has long been a driving force behind our nation's economic growth. Over the years, the Indian maritime sector witnessed a remarkable transformation as a result of the strong efforts of our government, industry stakeholders and the unwavering support of our maritime community. We have embarked on a journey of progress, embracing technological advancements, improving infrastructure, enhancing efficiency, and fostering a conducive business environment. Our programs and reform initiatives have been instrumental in enhancing port capacity, facilitating port-led industrialization, enhancing coastal shipping, reviving our inland waterways, and making India Atmanirbhar in shipbuilding, repair & recycling.”

Speaking about future prospects in the maritime sector the Minister said, “As we gather here today, we stand at the threshold of a new era for the Indian maritime sector. We aspire to become global leader in this sector. We have the potential to become a global maritime hub, driving economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and strengthening our position as a key player in international trade. The opportunities before us are vast and diverse. To achieve this, we must foster collaboration, embrace innovation, and leverage technology. We must continue to build robust infrastructure, invest in skill development, and create a conducive environment that encourages entrepreneurship and investment.”

Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Union Minister of State for Ports Shipping and Waterways, Shri. Shripad Naik, stated, “India’s maritime sector is experiencing profound transformation and presenting unprecedented opportunities. In this journey of growth the transformative Sagarmala initiative has been has been at the forefront of India’s infrastructure growth, strategically advancing the trade and logistics and positioning our nation as a maritime leader. Our aim was to enhance the infrastructure development, improve logistical competitiveness, foster industrialization, create employment opportunities and bolster the coastal economy. Through its multi pronged approach, the Sagarmala project has strengthened port modernization, improved port connectivity and fostered development of port led industrial clusters. This strategic alignment has positioned India as a preferred global trade partner attracting investment and spurring economic growth. The achievements of the sagramala program are a testament to its success and impact on our nation’s maritime landscape.”

The Curtain Raiser event saw the unveiling of the official brochure for the Global Maritime India Summit 2023 along with launch of the Website and Mobile App for Global Maritime India Summit 2023.

The event was also addressed by Shri.  Anil Devli, CEO, Indian National Shipowners Association, Shri.  Rajesh Tandon, CEO, Fosma Maritime Institute and Research Organization and Shri. Dhruv Kotak, Chairman- Ports & Shipping, FICCI Committee on Transport Infrastructure & MD, JM Baxi Group.

About Global Maritime India Summit (GMIS), 2023:

GMIS 2023 is a premier maritime sector focussed event to bring together pivotal figures from the industry to explore opportunities, understand challenges, and stimulate investment within India's maritime sector. Building upon the legacy of its preceding editions, this third instalment aims to unveil broader prospects for domestic and international maritime stakeholders and investors. Ready to make its presence felt on the global stage, and spotlight India's maritime industry, the Maritime India Summit has now evolved to the 'Global' Maritime India Summit this year. The summit is slated for 17th to 19th October 2023, at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, with FICCI as the exclusive industry partner.

For more details on the Global Maritime India Summit 2023, including a complete agenda and registration details, please visit the official website at www.maritimeindiasummit.com.

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