Bigger fleet, stronger seas—India accelerates maritime ambitions.

India’s Shipping Capacity Crosses 14.2 Million GT with Record Fleet Expansion in FY26.

India’s shipping fleet crossed a historic milestone in FY26 as total capacity surpassed 14.2 million Gross Tons (GT) following the addition of 92 vessels, marking the strongest annual expansion in recent years. According to official data, the newly inducted ships added 1.584 million GT and 2.575 million DWT, nearly three times the tonnage added in the previous year, reflecting accelerated fleet growth driven by supportive government policies. Of the 92 vessels, 42 overseas ships contributed the bulk of tonnage, led by oil tankers, gas carriers, bulk carriers and container ships, strengthening India’s deep-sea trade capacity. Major additions include VLCCs such as Sanmar Herald and Lila Jamnagar. Coastal shipping also grew with 50 vessels, supporting ports, offshore energy and regional trade. Global players like CMA CGM and Maersk registered vessels under the Indian flag via GIFT City. Despite progress, India still carries less than 1% of global shipping tonnage and aims to enter the top five ship-owning nations by 2047