Andhra Pradesh Invites South Korean Firms to Invest in ₹30,000 Crore Dugarajapatnam Shipbuilding Cluster

Andhra Pradesh has intensified its global investment outreach by inviting South Korean maritime companies to participate in the proposed ₹30,000 crore Dugarajapatnam Shipbuilding Cluster. The initiative highlights the state’s long-term strategy to establish itself as one of India’s leading centres for shipbuilding, marine equipment manufacturing and port-led industrial development.

The invitation was extended by Andhra Pradesh Minister for Education, Information Technology and Electronics Nara Lokesh during a maritime investment roundtable organised by the Korea Marine Equipment Association (KOMEA) in Busan, South Korea. Addressing industry leaders, Lokesh showcased the state’s strong maritime advantages, including its 1,053-km coastline, expanding port network and rapidly developing industrial ecosystem.

The proposed Dugarajapatnam Shipbuilding Cluster is being jointly developed by the Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board and the Visakhapatnam Port Authority. The project aims to create a world-class ecosystem for shipbuilding, ship repair, marine engineering and equipment manufacturing, while attracting global technology partners and investors.

The state government believes the project will significantly strengthen India’s maritime capabilities and reduce dependence on imports by encouraging domestic manufacturing of advanced marine equipment. The cluster is also expected to create thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities while supporting ancillary industries and logistics services across the region.

During the discussions, Lokesh encouraged South Korean companies to leverage Andhra Pradesh’s investor-friendly policies, modern infrastructure and strategic coastal location. He emphasised that the state offers seamless connectivity through ports, highways, industrial corridors and upcoming logistics infrastructure, making it an attractive destination for global manufacturers.

South Korea is recognised globally for its expertise in shipbuilding and marine technologies. By partnering with Korean companies, Andhra Pradesh aims to bring advanced manufacturing capabilities, innovation and international best practices into India’s maritime sector.

The Dugarajapatnam Shipbuilding Cluster is expected to play a key role in strengthening the country’s blue economy while supporting the Make in India initiative. Once operational, the project is expected to position Andhra Pradesh as a major maritime manufacturing hub, enhance exports, attract further foreign investments and contribute to the long-term growth of India’s shipping and marine engineering industries.