SCI Launches Record $720m Tender for Dual-Fuel Container Ships

The Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) has launched a record-breaking tender worth $720 million to purchase up to six medium-sized dual-fuel container ships. The estimated cost per vessel is approximately $120 million, with the largest global tender for container ships in SCI's history.

The new vessels will be designed with provisions for liquefied natural gas (LNG) dual-fuel propulsion and operated by the Bharat Container Shipping Line, a joint venture formed by SCI, Indian Container Corporation, Sagarmala Finance Corporation, and other parties. The tender notice explicitly stipulates that the successful bidder must complete the construction of the vessels at its own shipyard.

Indian shipyards are encouraged to participate in the tender, with provisions for support and partnerships with overseas shipyards. This move is part of India's efforts to promote its domestic liner fleet and achieve its goal of ranking among the top 10 globally by 2030 and among the top 5 by 2047.