CMA CGM Group has signed a letter of intent for six dual-fuel LNG containerships to be built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in India, making the French shipping company the first international carrier to commission LNG vessels from an Indian shipyard.

The 1,700 TEU vessels will be registered under the Indian flag and delivered between 2029 and 2031. The project will involve technical cooperation from Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries.

The ships are designed to run on LNG and are prepared for low-carbon fuels, which CMA CGM says will reduce greenhouse gas emissions as part of its ambition to achieve net zero carbon by 2050.

"I am pleased that CMA CGM is the first international shipping company to order LNG vessels built in India," said Rodolphe Saadé, chairman and CEO of CMA CGM Group. "This milestone reflects the trust we place in India's industrial and technological capabilities and supports Prime Minister Modi's ambition to make India a global shipbuilding power."

Madhu S Nair, chairman and managing director of Cochin Shipyard, commented: "We are pleased that CMA CGM has chosen CSL to be part of this landmark initiative. CSL is committed to deliver high-quality vessels with sustainable solutions to meet the market expectation of the future shipping."

CMA CGM has maintained a presence in India for 34 years. The group operates 19 weekly maritime services connecting India to global markets and holds stakes in terminals at Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal near Mumbai and Mundra Port.

The company has established its Global Business Services headquarters in Chennai, whilst CEVA Logistics, CMA CGM's logistics subsidiary, operates across 105 sites in 31 Indian cities.