DP World’s Marine Services business, Shipping Solutions, has expanded its fleet with the acquisition of DP World Indus, a container vessel with a capacity of more than 2,500 TEUs, to support coastal cargo transport across India.
The company stated that the vessel will be deployed to transport cargo between key Indian ports as part of its coastal shipping network.
Shipping Solutions currently operates a network covering 14 ports across India with a dedicated fleet of 10 vessels. In 2025, the business handled more than 473,000 TEUs through its coastal shipping operations.
According to DP World, coastal shipping provides an alternative mode of cargo transportation that can reduce reliance on road transport and support supply chain operations.
The vessel has made its maiden call at DP World-operated Jeddah South Container Terminal. The company added that the call reflects its approach of integrating its ports and marine services businesses to facilitate trade connectivity.
Ganesh Raj Global Chief Operating Officer, Marine Services – DP World
“India’s coastal shipping sector presents a significant opportunity to improve supply chain efficiency and support sustainable economic growth. We documented this opportunity gap in our ‘Enhancing India’s Ship Registry: Pathways to Global Competitiveness’ report in 2025, and the acquisition of India-flagged DP World Indus reflects our commitment to strengthening domestic maritime connectivity and providing customers with reliable, high-quality services that connect businesses and markets across the country.”
According to DP World, the vessel will transport containers along India’s coastline, providing customers with an additional transport option alongside long-distance road freight.
The acquisition is part of DP World’s ongoing investment in India’s trade and logistics sector, including maritime infrastructure, ports, logistics services, and integrated supply chain solutions.