State-run Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) has launched its largest-ever global tender worth an estimated $720 million for six cellular container ships, aiming to boost its fleet and domestic .
$720 Million
Tender Value
Equivalent Rupee Value: ₹6,858 Cr→$720 Million
⏳ Time Machine
How today’s news fits into the bigger picture
1961
Shipping Corporation of India Established
SCI was formed by the merger of Eastern Shipping Corporation and Western Shipping Corporation, aiming to provide a comprehensive shipping service and promote India's merchant fleet development.
2015
Sagarmala Programme Launched
The Indian government launched the Sagarmala Programme with the vision to reduce logistics costs for EXIM and domestic trade with minimal infrastructure investment, by leveraging coastal shipping and inland waterways. It focused on port modernization and new port development.
September 2025
Maritime Package Approved
The Union Cabinet approved a ₹69,725 crore package to promote the local industry, including the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Scheme (SBFAS) offering 15-25% assistance per vessel, to improve competitiveness.
Early 2026
Tender for Methanol Dual-Fuel Container Ships
SCI floated a $360 million tender for six methanol dual-fuel-ready feeder container ships, signaling an early move towards fleet modernization and greener shipping solutions.
Early 2026
First Domestic Aframax Tanker Bids
SCI also invited bids for four methanol dual-fuel-ready Aframax tankers, marking India's first attempt to build Aframax vessels domestically, further expanding its capabilities.
Today
Shipping Corporation of India launched its largest-ever global tender for six cellular container vessels worth $720 million.
What happens next?
Bids for the SCI tender are due by August 31, 2026, with the contract expected to be awarded to successful bidders, potentially including Indian shipyards with foreign partners.
The state-owned Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) has initiated its biggest-ever global tender, valued at an estimated $720 million (approximately ₹6,858 crore), for the construction of six cellular container ships. The tender calls for two firm orders and four optional vessels, each with a massive capacity of 8,000 TEUs. This ambitious move aims to modernize SCI's fleet, expand India's domestic shipbuilding capabilities, and align with the nation's goal of becoming a top five maritime power by 2047. Indian shipyards, even those without prior experience in building such large cellular vessels, are encouraged to participate through technical collaborations with experienced foreign partners.
💭 If you're wondering…
A cellular container ship is a specialized vessel designed with internal vertical guide rails and slots that allow standard 20-foot and 40-foot containers to be stacked securely and efficiently. This design optimizes cargo handling and storage for containerized goods.
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