JNPA Signs MoU with Marseille Fos to Boost India–Europe Maritime Trade Strengthening India–Europe Port Connectivity

By Admin

18 Feb, 2026

In a landmark move to enhance India–Europe maritime cooperation, the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Grand Port Maritime de Marseille Fos (GPMM).

This strategic partnership reinforces port-to-port collaboration and aims to boost trade connectivity between India and Europe, strengthening maritime flows and bilateral trade relations.

Leadership Behind the Agreement

The MoU was formally signed by Hervé Martel, CEO and Chairman of the Executive Board of Port of Marseille Fos, and Smt. Manisha Jadhav, General Manager (Admin) and Secretary, JNPA.

Their collaboration reflects a shared vision of building stronger maritime bridges between the two nations while ensuring sustainable and technologically advanced port operations.

Driving Bilateral Trade and Maritime Growth

The agreement focuses on enhancing bilateral trade and maritime flows through closer cooperation between JNPA and Marseille Fos. Both ports will work together to streamline trade processes, improve operational coordination, and strengthen global supply chain efficiency.

As one of India’s premier container ports, JNPA plays a vital role in facilitating international trade. This MoU further strengthens its position as a critical gateway for India’s exports and imports, particularly with European markets.

Focus on Innovation and Digital Transformation

A key highlight of the partnership is its strong emphasis on port innovation and digital transformation. Both ports will collaborate on:

• Smart port platforms
  
  

• Data interoperability systems
  
  

• Port digitalization strategies
  
  

• Technical exchanges and knowledge sharing
  
  

• Capacity-building programmes
  
  

These initiatives are expected to modernize port ecosystems, increase efficiency, and enhance transparency in maritime operations.

Advancing Sustainable and Green Port Practices

Sustainability is at the core of this collaboration. The MoU lays the groundwork for joint initiatives in energy transition and low-carbon operations, including:

• Adoption of alternative fuels such as LNG and hydrogen
  
  

• Development of Onshore Power Supply (OPS) infrastructure
  
  

• Promotion of low-carbon bunkering solutions
  
  

• Sustainable operational practices
  
  

This reflects a shared commitment to reducing carbon emissions and aligning with global climate goals while ensuring long-term maritime growth.

Building a Future-Ready Maritime Ecosystem

The partnership between JNPA and Marseille Fos goes beyond trade it aims to build sustainable, technologically advanced, and globally integrated port ecosystems.

By fostering innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence, this MoU deepens maritime ties between India and Europe and positions both ports as leaders in next-generation port management.

Conclusion

The MoU between Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority and Marseille Fos marks a significant milestone in India–Europe maritime relations. With a strong focus on trade expansion, digital transformation, and green initiatives, this collaboration is set to accelerate bilateral trade flows and create a resilient, future-ready maritime network connecting India and Europe.