News Bulletin: May 2025 – Edition 1
1. Global Container Shipping Volume Projected to Decline by 1% Amid U.S. Tariff Policies
Maritime consultancy Drewry forecasts a 1% decline in global container port volumes in 2025, attributing this downturn to the U.S. administration’s trade policies, including a 10% blanket tariff on most imports and a 145% tariff on Chinese goods. This would mark only the third annual decrease since 1979. The tariffs are expected to reduce U.S. imports from China by up to 40%, prompting retailers to pause orders and shift production to countries with lower tariffs, potentially increasing U.S. imports from these nations by up to 15%. Economists warn that these trade measures could dampen consumer confidence and elevate recession risks in the U.S., with potential global economic repercussions.
Source: ET Infra
2. ODeX Leads India’s Digital Transformation in Maritime Trade
ODeX is revolutionizing India’s EXIM operations by replacing outdated, paper-heavy workflows with intelligent, integrated digital systems. In April 2025, the platform launched eight new integrations across ports, partners, and process flows, streamlining trade operations for businesses nationwide. These advancements enable shipping lines, freight forwarders, CHAs, ports, and cargo owners to operate more efficiently and in full compliance with regulatory standards. Notable implementations include COSCO SHIPPING Lines (India) Private Limited across multiple ports, Eastern Liner Shipping Private Limited in Chennai, and ZIM Integrated Shipping Services India Pvt. Ltd in Pipavav. ODeX’s commitment to digital innovation positions it at the forefront of India’s maritime industry’s future.
Source: Maritime Gateway
3. India Launches Mumbai’s Largest Cruise Terminal to Boost Maritime Tourism
India has inaugurated the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal (MICT), the country’s largest, at Ballard Pier. Spanning 415,000 sq. ft., the terminal can handle over one million passengers annually and dock up to five cruise ships at once. Developed under a ₹556 crore PPP model with J M Baxi & Co., the terminal is central to the Cruise Bharat Mission, which aims to double cruise passenger traffic by 2029. A shore power facility was also introduced to support sustainable port operations.
Source: Maritime Executive
4. PM Modi to Inaugurate Vizhinjam International Seaport on May 2
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the Vizhinjam International Seaport near Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, on May 2, 2025. This marks a significant milestone as India’s first semi-automated deep-water container transshipment port becomes fully operational. Developed under a Public-Private Partnership between the Kerala government and Adani Ports, the port has already handled over 265 ships and 5.48 lakh TEUs since its commercial launch in December 2024. Strategically located near major international shipping routes, Vizhinjam is poised to enhance India’s maritime trade capabilities and position Kerala as a key global trade hub.
Source: Maritime News
5. India’s Port Sector Faces Headwinds Amid U.S. Tariff Turbulence, Says Jefferies
Jefferies warns that U.S. tariff hikes and a potential global slowdown could hurt India’s port sector, especially container volumes. Despite this, over $30 billion in port investments is projected by FY30, driven by capacity growth and terminal privatization. Private operators may see 10–16% volume CAGR. The shift to a landlord port model could boost PPP cargo handling from 51% to over 85%. However, falling freight rates remain a concern for export-import competitiveness.
Source: ET Infra
6. Eka Infra Observes Fire Services Week 2025 with Safety Initiatives
Eka Infra commemorated Fire Services Week 2025 from April 14 to 20, aligning with the national theme “Unite to Ignite, a Fire Safe India.” The company conducted fire safety training sessions and toolbox talks for all staff, ensuring readiness of firefighting equipment at both the Head Office and project sites. This initiative underscores Eka Infra’s commitment to fostering a culture of safety and honoring the dedication of firefighters.
Source: Eka Infra
