Top 10 Indian Shipping Companies

The shipping industry in India plays a significant role in the country’s economy, connecting the various ports and cities of the country to the global market. India has a long coastline of over 7,500 km and a large number of ports, making it an important player in the global shipping industry.

The Indian shipping industry comprises both government and private sector companies, with the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) being the largest state-owned company. The industry is responsible for the transportation of a wide range of goods including crude oil, petroleum products, containers, dry bulk cargo, and more.

The shipping industry in India is an important contributor to the country’s economy. India has a long coastline of approximately 7,500 kilometers and is strategically located at the crossroads of major international trade routes. The shipping industry in India is divided into two main categories: coastal shipping and international shipping.

Coastal Shipping: Coastal shipping refers to the transportation of cargo and passengers between ports located along the Indian coastline. Coastal shipping is important for the development of the country’s domestic trade and for connecting various regions of the country. The Indian government has taken several initiatives to promote coastal shipping, such as introducing policies that provide incentives for the use of coastal shipping over road or rail transport.

Overall, the shipping industry in India is an important contributor to the country’s economy, and the government is taking several steps to further its growth and development.

Top 10 Shipping Companies in India

India is one of the leading players in the international shipping industry, with a significant presence in both bulk and container shipping. The country’s major ports, including Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata, handle a large volume of international trade. The government has taken several steps to improve the infrastructure at these ports and attract foreign investment.

The Indian government has also introduced several policy measures to promote the growth of the shipping industry in the country, such as allowing 100% FDI in the sector and introducing tax incentives for shipping companies. India has also signed several international agreements to enhance cooperation in the shipping industry, such as the Memorandum of Understanding with Japan for the development of the Indian Ocean region.

1. Shipping Corporation of India (SCI)

The Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) is a government-owned company and the largest shipping company in India. It was founded in 1961 and is headquartered in Mumbai. SCI operates both in the domestic and international shipping markets, with a focus on the transportation of crude oil, petroleum products, and containers.

Here are some key facts about the Shipping Corporation of India:

1. Fleet: SCI has a diverse fleet of around 80 vessels, including crude oil tankers, bulk carriers, container vessels, and offshore supply vessels. The company has been actively modernizing its fleet with the addition of new, eco-friendly vessels.
2. Operations: SCI operates in several segments of the shipping industry, including liner shipping, bulk shipping, tanker shipping, offshore services, and passenger services. The company’s international operations cover major shipping routes, including those in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.
3. Infrastructure: SCI has a significant presence in India’s port infrastructure, with ownership and operation of several port terminals across the country.
4. Awards and Recognitions: SCI has received several awards and recognitions for its contributions to the shipping industry, including the Best Shipping Company Award at the Indian Maritime Awards 2021.
5. Sustainable Development: SCI has a strong focus on sustainable development and has implemented several measures to reduce its environmental impact. The company has adopted green technologies and practices, such as fuel-efficient engines, ballast water management systems, and waste management processes.

Overall, the Shipping Corporation of India is a major player in India’s shipping industry, with a focus on sustainable development and modernization of its fleet. Its operations span across different segments of the shipping industry, making it a crucial contributor to India’s economy.

SCI’s revenues for the fiscal year 2020-2021 were INR 7,923.76 crore (approx. $1.08 billion) and the company has a net worth of INR 1,947.43 crore (approx. $263 million). The company has been profitable in recent years, and it has been paying dividends to its shareholders.

In recent years, SCI has been focusing on expanding its fleet by acquiring new vessels and investing in new technologies to improve its operations. The company has also been investing in the development of new ports and shipyards to support the growth of the Indian shipping industry.

Website: https://www.shipindia.com/

2. Great Eastern Shipping

Great Eastern Shipping Company (GE Shipping) is one of the leading private sector shipping companies in India. The company was founded in 1948 and is headquartered in Mumbai. GE Shipping primarily operates in the transportation of crude oil, petroleum products, gas, and dry bulk commodities.

Here are some key facts about Great Eastern Shipping:

1. Fleet: GE Shipping has a diverse fleet of around 50 vessels, including crude oil tankers, product tankers, bulk carriers, LPG carriers, and offshore support vessels. The company has been actively modernizing its fleet with the addition of new, eco-friendly vessels.
2. Operations: GE Shipping operates in several segments of the shipping industry, including dry bulk shipping, tanker shipping, offshore services, and gas transportation. The company’s international operations cover major shipping routes, including those in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.
3. Infrastructure: GE Shipping has a significant presence in India’s port infrastructure, with ownership and operation of several port terminals across the country.
4. Awards and Recognitions: GE Shipping has received several awards and recognitions for its contributions to the shipping industry, including the Best Shipping Company Award at the Indian Maritime Awards 2020.
5. Sustainable Development: GE Shipping has a strong focus on sustainable development and has implemented several measures to reduce its environmental impact. The company has adopted green technologies and practices, such as fuel-efficient engines, ballast water management systems, and waste management processes.

Website: https://www.greatship.com/

3. Essar Shipping

Essar Shipping is a part of the Essar Group, one of India’s leading business conglomerates. The company was founded in 1945 and is headquartered in Mumbai. Essar Shipping primarily operates in the transportation of dry bulk commodities, such as iron ore, coal, and bauxite.

Here are some key facts about Essar Shipping:

1. Fleet: Essar Shipping has a diverse fleet of around 24 vessels, including bulk carriers and very large ore carriers (VLOCs). The company has been actively modernizing its fleet with the addition of new, eco-friendly vessels.
2. Operations: Essar Shipping primarily operates in the dry bulk shipping segment, with a focus on the transportation of iron ore, coal, and bauxite. The company’s operations cover major shipping routes, including those in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.
3. Infrastructure: Essar Shipping has a significant presence in India’s port infrastructure, with ownership and operation of several port terminals across the country.
4. Awards and Recognitions: Essar Shipping has received several awards and recognitions for its contributions to the shipping industry, including the Best Dry Bulk Shipping Company Award at the Indian Maritime Awards 2020.
5. Sustainable Development: Essar Shipping has a strong focus on sustainable development and has implemented several measures to reduce its environmental impact. The company has adopted green technologies and practices, such as fuel-efficient engines, ballast water management systems, and waste management processes.

Website: www.essar.com

4. Varun Shipping Company Limited

Varun Shipping Company Limited is a private sector shipping company based in Mumbai, India. The company was founded in 1970 and primarily operates in the transportation of liquid and dry bulk commodities, including crude oil, petroleum products, chemicals, and coal.

Here are some key facts about Varun Shipping Company Limited:

1. Fleet: Varun Shipping Company Limited has a fleet of around 10 vessels, including crude oil tankers, product tankers, and bulk carriers. The company has been actively modernizing its fleet with the addition of new, eco-friendly vessels.
2. Operations: Varun Shipping Company Limited primarily operates in the liquid and dry bulk shipping segments, with a focus on the transportation of crude oil, petroleum products, chemicals, and coal. The company’s operations cover major shipping routes, including those in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.
3. Infrastructure: Varun Shipping Company Limited has a significant presence in India’s port infrastructure, with ownership and operation of several port terminals across the country.
4. Awards and Recognitions: Varun Shipping Company Limited has received several awards and recognitions for its contributions to the shipping industry, including the Best Shipping Company Award at the Indian Maritime Awards 2019.
5. Sustainable Development: Varun Shipping Company Limited has a strong focus on sustainable development and has implemented several measures to reduce its environmental impact. The company has adopted green technologies and practices, such as fuel-efficient engines, ballast water management systems, and waste management processes.

5. Mercator Limited

Mercator Limited is a diversified conglomerate with interests in shipping, dredging, offshore services, and coal mining. The company was founded in 1983 and is headquartered in Mumbai, India. Mercator Limited primarily operates in the transportation of dry bulk commodities, such as coal, iron ore, and fertilizers.

Here are some key facts about Mercator Limited:

1. Fleet: Mercator Limited has a fleet of around 10 vessels, including bulk carriers and offshore support vessels. The company has been actively modernizing its fleet with the addition of new, eco-friendly vessels.
2. Operations: Mercator Limited primarily operates in the dry bulk shipping segment, with a focus on the transportation of coal, iron ore, and fertilizers. The company’s operations cover major shipping routes, including those in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.
3. Infrastructure: Mercator Limited has a significant presence in India’s port infrastructure, with ownership and operation of several port terminals across the country.
4. Awards and Recognitions: Mercator Limited has received several awards and recognitions for its contributions to the shipping industry, including the Best Coastal Shipping Company Award at the Indian Maritime Awards 2020.
5. Sustainable Development: Mercator Limited has a strong focus on sustainable development and has implemented several measures to reduce its environmental impact. The company has adopted green technologies and practices, such as fuel-efficient engines, ballast water management systems, and waste management processes.

6. Shreyas Shipping & Logistics Ltd.

Shreyas Shipping & Logistics Ltd. is a public sector shipping and logistics company based in Mumbai, India. The company was founded in 1988 and primarily operates in the container shipping segment, offering both domestic and international services.

Here are some key facts about Shreyas Shipping & Logistics Ltd.:

1. Fleet: Shreyas Shipping & Logistics Ltd. has a fleet of 14 vessels, including container vessels and multi-purpose vessels. The company has been actively expanding its fleet with the addition of new, eco-friendly vessels.
2. Operations: Shreyas Shipping & Logistics Ltd. primarily operates in the container shipping segment, with a focus on the transportation of containerized cargo. The company’s operations cover major ports in India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
3. Infrastructure: Shreyas Shipping & Logistics Ltd. has a significant presence in India’s port infrastructure, with ownership and operation of several container terminals across the country.
4. Awards and Recognitions: Shreyas Shipping & Logistics Ltd. has received several awards and recognitions for its contributions to the shipping industry, including the Best Coastal Shipping Company Award at the Indian Maritime Awards 2018.
5. Sustainable Development: Shreyas Shipping & Logistics Ltd. has a strong focus on sustainable development and has implemented several measures to reduce its environmental impact. The company has adopted green technologies and practices, such as fuel-efficient engines, ballast water management systems, and waste management processes.

7. ChellShip (Chellaram Shipping India Private Limited)

Chellaram Shipping India Private Limited is a shipping company based in Mumbai, India. The company was established in 1945 and is engaged in the shipping and logistics business, primarily focused on the transportation of liquid bulk cargo.

Here are some key facts about Chellaram Shipping India Private Limited:

1. Shipping Services: Chellaram Shipping India provides shipping services for liquid bulk cargo such as edible oils, chemicals, and petroleum products. The company has a fleet of tankers ranging from 4,000 DWT to 11,000 DWT, which are equipped with modern technology and comply with international safety standards.
2. Logistics Services: In addition to shipping, Chellaram Shipping India also provides logistics services such as transportation, warehousing, and customs clearance. The company has a network of offices and agents in India and overseas to support its logistics operations.
3. Sustainability: Chellaram Shipping India is committed to sustainability and operates its vessels in an environmentally responsible manner. The company has implemented measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and has obtained various certifications for its environmental management systems.
4. Awards: Chellaram Shipping India has received several awards and accolades for its shipping and logistics services, including the Best Tanker Operator Award at the Seatrade Maritime Awards Asia in 2018.

Overall, Chellaram Shipping India Private Limited is a well-established shipping and logistics company in India, with a

8. Gujarat Pipavav Port Limited (GPPL)

Gujarat Pipavav Port Limited (GPPL) is a private sector port operator based in the state of Gujarat, India. The company was founded in 1992 and primarily operates in the management and operation of a container terminal at the Port of Pipavav.

Here are some key facts about Gujarat Pipavav Port Limited:

1. Container Terminal: Gujarat Pipavav Port Limited operates a container terminal at the Port of Pipavav, which has a capacity of around 1.3 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) per annum. The terminal is equipped with modern infrastructure and handling equipment to handle containerized cargo.
2. Operations: Gujarat Pipavav Port Limited primarily operates in the container terminal management segment, with a focus on the handling of containerized cargo. The company’s operations cover major shipping routes, including those in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.
3. Infrastructure: Gujarat Pipavav Port Limited has a significant presence in India’s port infrastructure, with ownership and operation of the container terminal at the Port of Pipavav. The company has also made significant investments in port infrastructure development and expansion.
4. Awards and Recognitions: Gujarat Pipavav Port Limited has received several awards and recognitions for its contributions to the port industry, including the Best Container Terminal Operator Award at the Indian Maritime Awards 2019.
5. Sustainable Development: Gujarat Pipavav Port Limited has a strong focus on sustainable development and has implemented several measures to reduce its environmental impact. The company has adopted green technologies and practices, such as renewable energy sources, waste management processes, and water conservation measures.

9. ABG Shipyard Ltd.

ABG Shipyard Ltd. was a private sector shipbuilding company based in Gujarat, India. The company was founded in 1985 and primarily operated in the construction of ships, including offshore support vessels, bulk carriers, and oil tankers.

Here are some key facts about ABG Shipyard Ltd.:

1. Shipbuilding: ABG Shipyard Ltd. was primarily engaged in the construction of ships, including offshore support vessels, bulk carriers, and oil tankers. The company had two shipyards in Gujarat, with a combined capacity to build around 20-25 ships per year.
2. Operations: ABG Shipyard Ltd. primarily operated in the shipbuilding segment, with a focus on the construction of new ships. The company also offered repair and maintenance services for ships.
3. Infrastructure: ABG Shipyard Ltd. had two shipyards in Gujarat, with a combined area of over 1,000 acres. The shipyards were equipped with modern infrastructure and machinery to support shipbuilding operations.
4. Financial Difficulties: ABG Shipyard Ltd. faced significant financial difficulties in the later years of its operation, with mounting debt and inability to complete several shipbuilding projects. The company was declared bankrupt in 2018 and is currently undergoing insolvency proceedings.
5. Employment: ABG Shipyard Ltd. was a significant employer in Gujarat, with a workforce of over 6,000 employees at its peak. The company’s bankruptcy has had a significant impact on the employment situation in the region.

10. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilder Ltd. (MDL)

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) is a public sector shipyard and one of the leading shipbuilding companies in India. It is located on the west coast of India, in Mumbai, and was established in 1934.

Here are some key facts about Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited:

1. Shipbuilding: MDL is primarily engaged in the construction of naval ships, submarines, and offshore platforms for both Indian and foreign clients. The company has the capability to build a wide range of vessels, including frigates, destroyers, corvettes, and patrol vessels.
2. Operations: MDL primarily operates in the shipbuilding segment, with a focus on the construction of naval vessels and offshore platforms. The company also offers repair and maintenance services for ships.
3. Infrastructure: MDL has a shipyard in Mumbai, which covers an area of around 285 hectares. The shipyard is equipped with modern infrastructure and machinery to support shipbuilding operations.
4. Defense Partner: MDL is a strategic partner for the Indian Navy and has been involved in the construction of several naval vessels and submarines. The company has also collaborated with foreign shipyards to build naval vessels for other countries.
5. IPO: In 2020, MDL launched an initial public offering (IPO) to raise funds for its expansion plans. The IPO was well-received by investors and was oversubscribed by more than 157 times.

11. Hindustan Shipyard Limited

Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) is a public sector shipyard located in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India. The company was founded in 1941 and is one of the oldest shipyards in India.

Here are some key facts about Hindustan Shipyard Limited:

1. Shipbuilding: HSL is primarily engaged in the construction of naval ships, submarines, and commercial vessels. The company has built a wide range of vessels, including frigates, corvettes, tankers, and bulk carriers.
2. Operations: HSL operates in the shipbuilding and ship repair segments. The company also provides engineering and consulting services in the maritime sector.
3. Infrastructure: HSL has a shipyard in Visakhapatnam, which covers an area of around 200 acres. The shipyard is equipped with modern infrastructure and machinery to support shipbuilding operations.
4. Defense Partner: HSL is a strategic partner for the Indian Navy and has been involved in the construction of several naval vessels and submarines. The company has also collaborated with foreign shipyards to build naval vessels for other countries.
5. Expansion Plans: HSL is currently undergoing a modernization and expansion program to increase its shipbuilding capacity and upgrade its infrastructure. The company is also exploring opportunities to enter new segments in the maritime sector.

Website: https://www.chellship.com/

Importance of Shipping Companies in India’s Economy

Shipping companies play a vital role in India’s economy by facilitating the movement of goods and raw materials to and from the country. India has a long coastline and is strategically located on major international trade routes, making it an important player in the global shipping industry. Here are some of the ways in which shipping companies are important to India’s economy:

1. Facilitating international trade: Shipping companies are responsible for transporting goods and raw materials between India and other countries. This facilitates international trade and contributes to India’s economic growth.
2. Creating jobs: The shipping industry in India provides employment opportunities to a large number of people, including seafarers, port workers, and logistics professionals. This helps to support the country’s economy and reduce unemployment.
3. Boosting infrastructure development: Shipping companies often invest in the development of port infrastructure and logistics facilities. This helps to improve the country’s transportation infrastructure and make it more efficient, which in turn boosts economic growth.
4. Supporting domestic trade: Shipping companies also play a role in facilitating domestic trade by transporting goods and raw materials between ports along the Indian coastline. This supports local industries and helps to connect different regions of the country.
5. Generating revenue: Shipping companies generate revenue through their operations, which in turn contributes to the country’s GDP. This revenue can be used to fund social programs and infrastructure development, further supporting economic growth.

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Top 15 Largest Shipping Companies in World 2023

1. A.P. Moller – Maersk Group
2. Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)
3. CMA CGM
4. COSCO SHIPPING Lines
5. Hapag-Lloyd
6. Ocean Network Express Holdings (ONE)
7. The Evergreen Group
8. Hyundai Merchant Marine (HMM)
9. Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation
10. Zim Integrated Shipping Services
11. Wan Hai Lines
12. Pacific International Lines (PIL)
13. Zhonggu Logistics Corporation
14. X-Press Feeders
15. Sinokor Merchant Marine

FAQs about Top Merchant Navy Companies in India (2023)

Which are the best shipping companies in India?

List of best shipping companies in India are:
1. Shipping Corporation of India (SCI)
2. Essar Shipping Ltd
3. VARUN Shipping Co.Ltd
4. Great Eastern Shipping Co.Ltd
5. Shreyas Shipping Ltd
6. Cochin Shipping Ltd

Which are the largest shipping companies in India?

Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) is one of the largest shipping companies in India. It’s an Indian public sector company that’s come under the Government of India. MERCATOR Ltd is one of the Second largest shipping companies in India. It’s a private sector shipping company in India.

Which is India’s biggest shipping company in India?

Great Eastern Shipping Ltd is one of the biggest tanker shipping companies in India. It’s a private sector shipping company. They have more than 20 biggest tanker ships in India.

Which company is best for the merchant navy?

Best companies for merchant navy are:
1. Anglo Eastern Shipping Ltd
2. Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)
3. CMA-CGM Group
4. A.P. Moller – Maersk Group
5. Evergreen Marine Corp.
6. Hapag – Lloyd

Which shipping companies are best for offshore?

Best companies for offshore are:
1. Schlumberger
2. Halliburton
3. Baker Hughes
4. Petrofac
5. Weatherford
6. Nabors Offshore