Shipping Corporation of India wants more boxships for Indian shipments

Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) is inviting tenders from ship owners as the Indian state-owned company plans to buy up to six pre-owned ships or newbuilding re-sales. The tanker-focused SCI wants to increase its owned fleet to reduce the country’s dependence on foreign carriers.

Clarksons shows that out of its 118 ships, only two, the 4,400 TEU SCI Chennai and SCI Mumbai, are container vessels. SCI is seeking one firm 12,000-18,000 TEU ship (aged up to 15 years as of 31 October 2024), plus one option. Furthermore, SCI is seeking two firm 1,500-2,500 TEU ships, aged up to 15 years, plus two options.

Vessels must be built at an experienced/reputable shipyard, and tonnage without ballast water treatment systems will not be considered, according to the company.

Alphaliner said SCI has chartered the 9,034 TEU SCI Delhi which services its IPAK service operated with MSC from India to Europe. The 1,970 TEU AS Alexandria, which is on charter until this year, is servicing SCI’s Kandla-Cochin service.

The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted India’s dependence on foreign shipping line services, which are transporting an estimated 99% of the country’s exports, leaving the country’s shippers exposed when rates are high.

Alison Koo
Asian Correspondent

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