India is vigorously advancing the expansion of its maritime infrastructure. Ports, shipyards and logistics chains are being modernised, while investments in digitalisation and sustainable propulsion technologies are gaining momentum. This creates new market opportunities for international equipment manufacturers and technology providers. These developments will also be clearly visible at SMM 2026.
During the recent Hamburg business delegation visit to Mumbai, key programmes such as the “Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision” were at the centre of the discussions. The initiative aims to position India among the world’s top five shipbuilding nations by 2045 and to increase port cargo handling capacity to 10,000 MTPA. Discussions focused in particular on financing and potential partnerships for expanding port and terminal capacities, strengthening shipbuilding capabilities, and improving efficiency in hinterland logistics.
Claus Ulrich Selbach, Vice President Exhibitions Energy & Maritime at Hamburg Messe und Congress, who participated in the delegation trip, states: “India is making targeted investments in modern port infrastructure, alternative propulsion technologies and digital solutions. There is a clear demand for international technology and industrial partnerships. For maritime equipment manufacturers and system providers, this creates long-term business prospects.”
Around 35 Indian companies are expected to participate in SMM 2026, presenting both individually and in joint pavillions. India thus remains a firm component of the international exhibitor structure of SMM.
India’s maritime development was already extensively discussed at SMM 2024 during a dedicated session. SMM 2026 will build on this dialogue and further deepen discussions on investment, infrastructure modernisation and technological cooperation.
These topics are also reflected in the key focus areas of SMM 2026: maritime security, artificial intelligence, decarbonisation, and digital and sustainable technologies. With the new conference all about ports (2–3 September 2026), the future of global port infrastructure will also move into sharper focus.
SMM will take place in Hamburg from 1–4 September 2026.
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