Cochin Shipyard, Drydocks World Ink JV to Strengthen India’s Ship Repair Ecosystem

Drydocks World, a DP World company, and Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) have signed a 50:50 joint venture agreement to operate and expand the International Ship Repair Facility (ISRF) in Kochi, marking a significant development for India's ship repair industry.

The agreement was signed by Drydocks World CEO Captain Rado Antolovic and CSL Chairman and Managing Director Jose V J on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit 2026 in Delhi. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal and UAE Assistant Foreign Minister for Advanced Science and Technology Omran Sharaf Alhashimi were present.

The partnership formalises an MoU signed by the two companies during India Maritime Week 2025 to explore collaboration in ship repair and allied maritime services.

Under the JV, the companies will operate, consolidate and expand the ISRF, adding capacity to handle a wider range of vessels and cater to Indian, regional and international customers. The initiative is also expected to strengthen Kochi's position as a maritime services hub and create opportunities in ship repair, engineering, fabrication and related services.

Sonowal said the partnership would strengthen India's ship repair ecosystem and provide an opportunity for Kerala to emerge as a leading maritime services hub. He said combining CSL's expertise with Drydocks World's global capabilities would create new capacity, skills and economic opportunities while supporting India's Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.

Alhashimi said the venture demonstrated how India-UAE cooperation could translate into tangible industrial outcomes and strengthen maritime capabilities.

Antolovic said Drydocks World's ambition extends beyond the Kochi facility, with opportunities to expand ship repair and fabrication capabilities across India.

CSL's Jose said the partnership would bring global best practices, faster turnaround times and higher standards of quality and safety.

Strategically located along major international shipping routes, the ISRF has a ship lift system and modern docking facilities capable of servicing a wide range of vessels.