India aims high in bringing foreign-owned vessels under the national flag

India is aiming to bring at least 300 foreign-owned vessels under the Indian flag by 2030 as part of a broader effort to expand the national fleet and reduce logistics costs. The process of re-flagging about 50 ships is already underway and is likely to be completed within the next three months. Nearly 11 major global shipping lines have expressed willingness to shift a portion of their fleets to the Indian registry—a move authorities say reflects growing confidence in India’s maritime governance and regulatory stability. 

Re-flagging enables a vessel to operate under Indian maritime law and be listed in the country’s shipping registry.  The initiative will allow these ships to carry domestic cargo, support exporters—especially MSMEs—and strengthen supply chain resilience during future disruptions. It will also help retain a larger share of freight earnings within the country, as per a report.

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