
In a significant move, India is considering the complete removal of its cabotage laws, enabling foreign-flagged and registered ships to operate along its coast without requiring a permit from the Directorate General of Shipping, a key regulatory authority. Currently, only Indian-registered ships are permitted for local cargo transportation. The intended purpose of these laws was to safeguard domestic shipowners. This initiative, viewed as a major reform in the shipping sector under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to promote coastal shipping as a cost-effective and energy-efficient mode of transportation for both passengers and freight. The plan involves fostering public-private partnerships with viability gap funding. India's Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, previously emphasized the promotion of coastal shipping, underscoring the importance of enhancing ports and jetties, improving port connectivity, determining suitable v...