Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) and the Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. (SCI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate in the tugboat business in India, marking a new phase of cooperation between Japan and India in the maritime sector.
The agreement was signed on October 27, 2025, during India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai. The partnership aims to strengthen safe and sustainable tugboat operations in India’s rapidly expanding port ecosystem.
Moreover, India’s economic growth is projected to drive 6–8% annual increases in container cargo and 3–5% in energy cargo over the next decade, resulting in a higher number of vessel calls at major ports.
This trend underscores the growing need for reliable tugboat services. Under the Indian government’s Green Tug Transition Program, the country plans to convert all major port tugboats to environmentally friendly “Green Tugs” by 2040, a milestone that will transform the sector.
MOL, which currently operates tugboat services in Japan, Hong Kong, and Vietnam, will bring its technical expertise, safety experience, and alternative-fuel technology to the collaboration.
Additionally, by leveraging SCI’s strong local network and MOL’s global know-how, the partnership will enhance operational safety, efficiency, and sustainability across Indian ports.
This strategic alliance highlights both companies’ commitment to decarbonization and the modernization of India’s port operations, supporting the country’s maritime growth and environmental goals.
