MacGregor, a provider of maritime cargo handling solutions, has been selected to deliver a comprehensive scope of cargo handling equipment for six 1,700 TEU dual-fuel LNG-powered containerships to be built at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in India. The newbuilds are being constructed for CMA CGM and are scheduled for delivery between 2029 and 2031, supporting and reinforcing India's role as a strategic hub for global trade and sustainable shipbuilding.

At 1,700 TEU, the ships fall into the feeder segment of the container market, a size class generally associated with regional services. CMA CGM pioneered LNG propulsion in the ultra-large segment with its 23,000 TEU Jacques Saadé-class delivered from 2020, and the Cochin order extends the carrier's dual-fuel approach into a smaller category of tonnage.

The order was booked to MacGregor's Q2 2026 orders received. The extensive scope of supply includes the design and key components, steel structures and fabrication of hatch covers, as well as design and key components for cell guides, deck stanchions, and fixed container fittings. Hatch covers seal the cargo holds against sea and weather, while cell guides and fixed fittings secure containers in position in the hold and on deck — functions central to the safe carriage of boxed cargo.

The contract represents a significant milestone in supporting the expansion of sustainable shipping infrastructure in the Indian subcontinent. Designed to run on LNG and ready for low-carbon fuels, the vessels align with CMA CGM's ambition to reach Net Zero Carbon by 2050. The fuel choice also reflects a broader industry pattern, with LNG adopted by many carriers as a transition fuel as shipping works toward the International Maritime Organization's goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping by or around 2050. The project also marks a historic moment for the Indian maritime industry, as CMA CGM becomes the first major international carrier to commission LNG vessels from an Indian shipyard.

Strategic Partnership and Local Expertise

Cochin Shipyard, a public sector undertaking under India's Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, is one of the country's largest shipbuilding and ship repair facilities, and the order aligns with national efforts, including Maritime India Vision 2030, to expand India's shipbuilding footprint.

"We are committed to delivering high-quality vessels with sustainable solutions that meet the market expectations of the future," stated Mr. Vijai Hari P, AGM-Business Development at Cochin Shipyard. "Partnering with MacGregor for the cargo handling ensures that these vessels will be equipped with world-class technology. This project is a testament to our growing capabilities in the global shipbuilding arena and our commitment to the 'Make in India' vision."

The securing of the contract was supported by VARYA Tech Private Limited, MacGregor's long-term agent in India. The company's deep understanding of the local market and customers played a pivotal role in bridging coordination between the shipyard and MacGregor.

"We are proud to have supported this significant agreement between MacGregor and Cochin Shipyard," said Mr. Ajay Jalali, Vice President Sales at VARYA Tech Private Limited. "Securing an order of this magnitude for CMA CGM's new fleet requires seamless collaboration and technical excellence. We look forward to seeing these innovative ships take shape and contribute to the modernization of India's maritime sector."

"We are honored to be selected by Cochin Shipyard for this landmark project," said Magnus Sjöberg, Executive Vice President at MacGregor. "Our ability to provide a complete, integrated cargo handling system ensures operational efficiency and safety for these state-of-the-art vessels. This order further strengthens our position as a preferred partner for complex newbuild projects globally, especially as the industry transitions toward more sustainable fuel solutions."

With deliveries phased between 2029 and 2031, the six-ship series provides a multi-year execution window for the shipyard and its equipment suppliers as the industry's shift toward lower-carbon fuels continues.

Source: MacGregor via Hellenic Shipping News