San Marine, a leading Indian shipbuilder, showcased Andhra Pradesh’s growing prominence in the global shipbuilding, repair, and green shipping sectors. This took place at the prestigious Singapore Maritime Week 2025 (SMW-25).
The four-day event, held at the Suntec Convention Centre, concluded on March 28. It brought together global maritime leaders to discuss collaborations, emerging technologies, sustainable shipping, and digital business innovations.
The event saw participation from key maritime nations, including India, the Netherlands, France, Germany, Russia, and China. It highlighted their advancements in port development and shipping technology. A significant highlight was the inauguration of the India Pavilion by India’s Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal. He was joined by Singapore’s Senior Minister of State for Transport and Sustainability, Dr. Amy Khor. The pavilion served as a hub for policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders. It provided a platform to explore opportunities in maritime investment and sustainable initiatives.
San Marine’s presence at SMW-25 positioned Andhra Pradesh as a rising force in the global shipbuilding and ship repair industry. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri N. Chandrababu Naidu, Andhra Pradesh is leveraging its 1,000-kilometer-long coastline, deep-draft ports, and pro-industry policies to emerge as a strategic maritime hub. The state’s government has been actively promoting Andhra Pradesh as a preferred destination for shipbuilding, repair, and recycling. It offers dedicated industrial policies and incentives to boost the sector.
Speaking at SMW-25, San Marine’s leadership emphasized the advantages Andhra Pradesh offers. These include Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and industrial corridors to support the shipbuilding supply chain. Additionally, there are ship recycling yards compliant with the Hong Kong Convention. The government-backed incentives, such as tax breaks, land allotments, and single-window clearances, further enhance Andhra Pradesh’s appeal to maritime investors.
San Marine used the platform to announce its expansion plans in Kakinada. This move reinforces its commitment to building and repairing vessels of up to 10,000 DWT. The company engaged in discussions with Singapore-based shipping firms and classification societies. It also explored potential joint ventures with green shipping technology providers. These collaborations align with India’s Make in India and Maritime India Vision 2030 initiatives. They focus on eco-friendly shipbuilding practices and advanced automation technologies.
Sheik Ahmed Alisha, Founder & CEO of San Marine, highlighted Andhra Pradesh’s potential, stating, “Andhra Pradesh is poised to become South Asia’s premier shipbuilding hub. With the unwavering support of the Central and State governments and investor-friendly policies, we aim to position Andhra Pradesh as a global center for shipbuilding, repair, and green ship recycling.”
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Under Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu’s leadership, Andhra Pradesh is set to become India’s largest integrated shipbuilding and marine logistics hub on the east coast. The state’s initiatives to enhance port connectivity through road, rail, and inland waterways, facilitate Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), and develop a skilled workforce are driving its maritime ambitions forward.
As SMW-25 concluded, San Marine’s participation underscored its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and maritime excellence, setting the stage for a new era of growth in India’s shipbuilding industry. With strategic investments and global partnerships, Andhra Pradesh is well on its way to becoming a key player in the international maritime sector.
Press Release and Images Courtesy of San Marine
AD Ports Group and Columbia Group have formed a joint venture to optimize third-party vessel operations. The venture will also enhance the operations of AD Ports Group’s ocean-going fleet through state-of-the-art fleet management systems.
The newly formed entity, Noatum – CSM Limited, combines Columbia Group’s expertise in advanced fleet management systems and AI-driven performance analytics. It also leverages AD Ports Group’s diverse fleet and extensive ship management experience, both globally and regionally. Also, by integrating ship management into AD Ports Group’s Maritime & Shipping Cluster service portfolio, this strategic alliance enhances its service offerings. It provides third parties with the benefits of a world-class ship management system and team.
The JV will benefit from immediate access to Columbia Group’s Performance Optimization Control Room (POCR). This advanced digital platform is designed to catalyze fleet performance enhancement, predictive maintenance, and regulatory compliance. This platform provides continuous live monitoring and comprehensive decision support tools to optimize voyages, speed, bunker usage, and emissions. The system will harness data from multiple vessels to empower informed decision-making and enhance operational and commercial performance.
Captain Ammar Mubarak Al Shaiba, CEO – Maritime & Shipping Cluster, AD Ports Group, said: “This partnership symbolizes a pivotal advancement in maritime asset management, merging the strengths of Columbia Group and AD Ports Group. As we expand our capabilities, we are benefitting our clients by elevating quality and efficiency. We are committed to offering a holistic suite of services with exceptional operational competency and expertise, further fortifying our position as a global maritime service provider.”
Mark O’Neil, President and CEO – Columbia Group said: “This partnership marks a significant milestone in our shared vision to set new standards in maritime asset management. Combining Columbia’s global expertise with AD Ports Group’s strong presence in the Middle East will drive operational excellence and innovation in the region’s maritime sector. We look forward to building a sustainable and future-ready business together.”
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Strategically based in the UAE, the JV will support day-to-day management. It will also introduce comprehensive crew management, procurement, training, and other operational services to ensure best-in-class asset management practices. Noatum – CSM Limited will unlock a broad array of additional skills, capabilities and operational excellence for clients.
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