India and Saudi Arabia have launched a Joint Working Group (JWG) to boost maritime cooperation, marking a new step in their growing strategic partnership. The agreement was finalised during a high-level virtual meeting on August 20, 2025, between India’s Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, and Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Transport and Logistic Services, Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser.
The initiative builds on centuries-old ties and aligns with both countries’ national visions—India’s Maritime India Vision 2030 and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. With bilateral trade touching USD 42 billion in FY 2024–25, both sides see the need to lower trade costs, strengthen logistics, and improve port infrastructure.
At the heart of the deal is a Joint Working Group dedicated to shipping and logistics. This body will act as a platform for policy alignment, investment coordination, and port-led development. One major outcome already under way is the Jeddah–Mundra/Nhava Sheva shipping route launched by Saudi Arabia’s Folk Maritime Services. This corridor will cut transit time and reduce freight costs for businesses in both nations.
India has also invited Saudi Arabia to join its MAITRI digital platform, designed to enable paperless maritime trade, improve cargo tracking, and bring transparency to logistics operations.
On the investment front, India highlighted major port projects open to foreign participation, including the Vadhavan Port in Maharashtra and the Outer Harbour Project at VO Chidambaranar Port in Tamil Nadu. Both projects could expand cargo-handling capacity and strengthen India’s position as a regional hub. The government also invited Saudi Arabia to explore opportunities through India’s USD 3 billion Maritime Development Fund.
Both sides stressed that the collaboration is not just about trade but also about building a sustainable, technology-driven maritime future. The Joint Working Group will coordinate efforts, unlock private sector participation, and integrate digital systems to streamline global trade.
India and Saudi Arabia’s move to deepen maritime ties signals a shared vision of stronger connectivity, resilience, and mutual prosperity.
