A.P. Moller - Maersk named its latest dual-fuel methanol container vessel, Albert Maersk, in Mumbai during its maiden voyage to India. This marks the 11th vessel in Maersk’s fleet capable of running on methanol. The ceremony, hosted by Maersk CEO Vincent Clerc, was attended by Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Raksha Khadse, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, along with diplomats, government officials, and industry partners. 

India’s role in hosting this naming ceremony underscores its growing importance in green fuel production, with potential to become a key supplier of green methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen-based fuels. Maersk’s commitment to expanding green shipping aligns with India’s ambitions to become a global maritime leader. 

Maersk plays a crucial role in India’s logistics sector, moving one in every six containers imported or exported from the country. Its operations include two APM Terminals in Mumbai and Pipavav, handling over three million containers annually, along with 26 warehouses and a distribution network covering more than 80% of India’s pin codes. 

During the event, Maersk announced a $5 billion investment pipeline in Indian ports, terminals, and landside infrastructure, aiming to reduce logistics costs and improve supply chain efficiency. The company expressed readiness to develop low-emission ports to support India’s growing trade and manufacturing sectors. 

Albert Maersk, built by Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan, South Korea, can carry 16,592 standard containers (TEU) and is part of a series of 18 dual-fuel methanol vessels scheduled for delivery in 2024 and 2025. These vessels are key to Maersk’s goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, with bio- and e-methanol reducing emissions by at least 65% compared to traditional bunker oil. Maersk continues to push for strong International Maritime Organisation (IMO) regulations to support a multi-fuel future and close the cost gap between fossil and alternative fuels. 

(Maersk)