Global shipping and logistics company AP Moller–Maersk has marked a major milestone in India’s maritime manufacturing sector with the unveiling of its first export-import (EXIM) shipping container manufactured in the country. The container was unveiled at the Maersk–Container Corporation of India (CONCOR) Inland Container Depot in Dadri, Uttar Pradesh, in the presence of Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal.
The occasion also marked the beginning of a larger commercial partnership, with Maersk placing an order for 1,000 additional shipping containers with the DCM Shriram Group. The move is expected to support the growth of domestic container manufacturing while strengthening India’s position in the global maritime supply chain.
The achievement follows more than a year of collaboration between Maersk, Indian manufacturers and government agencies. The initiative gained momentum after discussions held in February 2025 between Maersk Chairman Robert Maersk Uggla and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during which the company was encouraged to support the development of container manufacturing in India.
Maersk said the container has been built to meet the company’s stringent global quality standards. The unit successfully cleared structural, safety and durability tests in line with international ISO specifications and the International Convention for Safe Containers (CSC). These assessments covered stacking strength, lifting, racking, floor performance and weather resistance, ensuring the container is suitable for global shipping operations.
The company shared its technical expertise and manufacturing standards with its Indian production partner throughout the development process. This collaboration has enabled the production of containers that meet international performance and safety requirements.
The project has also received support from the Government of India’s efforts to promote domestic manufacturing. The proposed Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for container manufacturing, announced in the Union Budget 2026 with an outlay of ₹10,000 crore, is expected to improve the competitiveness of Indian-made containers in global markets. The initiative aligns with the country’s Maritime Vision 2030 and the Atmanirbhar Bharat programme.
Looking ahead, Maersk plans to expand its sourcing from India as domestic manufacturing capacity grows and quality standards continue to meet international requirements. The company views the first India-made container as the beginning of a long-term partnership with Indian manufacturers, aimed at creating a globally competitive container manufacturing ecosystem.
