India’s Cochin Shipyard Bets €2.3m on Dutch Green Ship Design—Here’s Why
Cochin Shipyard acquires 23% of Netherlands-based Conoship for €2.3 million to boost decarbonised vessel capabilities.
India’s state-owned Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has taken a strategic step into the European maritime design sector by acquiring a 23% equity stake in Conoship International Holding BV, a Netherlands-based ship design and engineering firm. The deal, valued at €2.3 million, was formalized through a Share Purchase Agreement and a Shareholders’ and Cooperation Agreement, with finalization expected within two months. The transaction received approval from India’s Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM).
For CSL, the investment represents its first direct equity participation in an international ship design company, moving beyond traditional third-party licensing agreements. Conoship specializes in designing a wide range of vessels, including tankers, ferries, offshore supply ships, general cargo vessels, and dredging ships. The Dutch firm also provides comprehensive services such as feasibility studies, financing support, and shipyard selection, alongside expertise in alternative-fuel systems for methanol and hydrogen, as well as wind-assisted propulsion technologies.
This partnership will enhance CSL’s ability to construct decarbonized and energy-efficient vessels, aligning with global environmental standards. Conoship’s established presence in North Europe will also give the Indian shipbuilder a direct channel to secure orders for green tugboats, offshore vessels, and short-sea cargo ships in the region. Additionally, Conoship’s designs can be adapted for India’s inland waterways and coastal shipping routes, supporting national initiatives like the Sagarmala program and Maritime India Vision 2030.
Strategic benefits for both companies: India
For Conoship, the collaboration offers access to CSL’s cost-effective manufacturing infrastructure in India. Currently reliant on third-party shipyards for construction, the Dutch firm will now be able to offer clients integrated ‘design and build’ packages, expanding its service portfolio. The partnership also opens doors to India’s growing maritime sector, including government-backed projects for coastal shipping and green inland waterway vessels, positioning Conoship to attract more clients across Asia.
The deal builds on an existing working relationship between the two companies. CSL previously constructed short-sea cargo ships based on Conoship’s designs for European clients, demonstrating the compatibility of their expertise. This equity investment solidifies their collaboration, creating a mutually beneficial framework for future projects in both Europe and India.
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