Corner Office Conversation with Maersk’s Keith Svendsen and Chris Cook
Mar 4, 2025
auto_awesome
Keith Svendsen, CEO of APM Terminals, and Christopher Cook, Managing Director for India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka at Maersk, dive into the company's ambitious $5 billion investment in India. They discuss the transformation of port operations and Maersk's evolving role in global trade. Insightful topics include the launch of the innovative Gemini network, enhancing shipping capacity, and India's shipbuilding advancements at Alang Shipyard. The conversation also touches on adapting to global shipping challenges and future growth strategies.
Maersk's $5 billion investment in India aims to enhance port operations and capture emerging trade opportunities, despite previous slow expansion.
The company's focus on sustainability includes launching dual-fuel methanol ships and integrating renewable energy projects into its Indian operations.
Deep dives
Maersk's $5 Billion Investment in India
Maersk has announced a landmark investment of $5 billion in India, aimed at enhancing its presence in the market and supporting local port projects. A significant portion of this investment will be dedicated to the Pipavav port in Gujarat and a planned container terminal at the Vadavan mega port project. However, both investments hinge on critical conditions, including the renewal of APM terminals' 30-year concession for Pipavav, set to expire in 2028, and winning the bid for the Vadavan terminal. This substantial investment comes as Maersk faces scrutiny for its slow expansion in India, making it a pivotal moment for the company in the region.
Resilience and Growth Amid Global Challenges
Despite facing geopolitical challenges and disruptions, Maersk reported robust earnings in 2024, marking one of its best years in history. The company highlighted the importance of resilience and adaptability in global logistics, noting that unforeseen events, like the closure of the Red Sea, can drastically influence trade flows. Having undergone a significant network overhaul through the Gemini cooperation with Hapag-Lloyd, Maersk expects to achieve considerable cost savings and enhanced operational efficiency. This adaptability underscores the necessity for continuous evolution in the ever-changing landscape of global trade.
Opportunities for India in the Global Supply Chain
As supply chains diversify to mitigate risks, India is poised to play a larger role in global trade, especially as companies adopt 'China plus one' strategies. With India’s services sector contributing significantly to its GDP, there is optimism about increased investments and expanded trade avenues. Maersk representatives indicated that the anticipated growth in sectors such as manufacturing and retail, driven by India's economic partnerships, will elevate the country's contribution to Maersk's revenues. The future outlook suggests that as businesses invest more in India, the proportion of Maersk's global revenue generated from the country, currently at 8%, could increase significantly.
Sustainability Initiatives and Technological Innovations
Maersk is committed to sustainability, exemplified by its recent launch of a dual-fuel methanol container ship and initiatives to electrify port operations in India. The company plans to implement renewable energy projects, including a captive solar power plant, aiming for a greener operational footprint. Furthermore, Maersk is exploring partnerships for green methanol production, recognizing India's potential to contribute significantly to future fuel sources. These efforts reflect Maersk's strategy to integrate sustainability into its core operations while leveraging India's renewable energy capabilities.
Shipping giant AP Moeller Maersk just announced its biggest investment commitment to India: $5 billion. The investment will mostly be spent in trying to renew an existing port contract and bidding for a new one. But are there other projects on the anvil? What about logistics and shipbuilding? The company has been slower than its rivals to expand: globally and in India. But will a recent blockbuster profit and an overhaul of the network unleash its animal spirits? Host Anirban Chowdhury talks about it all with Keith Svendsen, Chief Executive Officer, APM Terminals and Christopher Cook, Managing Director, India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.