Strengthening Maritime Bonds: Day 2 of BIMSTEC Ports Conclave Charts Path for Regional Growth

Visakhapatnam, July 15, 2025 – The second day of the 2nd BIMSTEC Ports Conclave brought together high-level policymakers, industry leaders, and maritime experts to explore comprehensive strategies aimed at strengthening port connectivity, enhancing maritime cooperation, and unlocking the immense economic potential of the Bay of Bengal region.

The day witnessed a series of dynamic panel discussions and technical sessions focusing on port efficiency, cruise tourism, sustainable development, and human capital building in the maritime domain.

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Boosting Intra-Regional Trade

The conclave opened with a session centered on intra-regional trade, which currently accounts for a modest 7% of BIMSTEC's total trade. Experts identified key bottlenecks such as inefficient customs procedures, regulatory barriers, and weak inter-port logistics. Emphasis was laid on:

• Streamlining customs protocols

• Harmonizing standards

• Digitizing trade processes

• Investing in last-mile logistics

Speakers agreed that efficient cargo handling and seamless port operations could exponentially increase regional trade volumes and economic interdependence.

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Tapping into Cruise Tourism Potential

One of the most vibrant sessions of the day explored the untapped potential of cruise tourism across BIMSTEC countries. The panel advocated for:

• Developing shared cruise tourism circuits

• Promoting eco-tourism and coastal heritage tourism

• Leveraging the region’s cultural richness and biodiversity

Industry leaders proposed collaborative marketing strategies and infrastructure upgrades to attract international cruise operators, while ensuring environmentally responsible tourism.

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Sustainable Port Collaboration

Another key highlight was a strategic session on inter-port collaboration among BIMSTEC nations. The discussion focused on:

• Sustainable port development models

• Innovation in port technologies

• Adoption of global best practices

Participants agreed on the need to establish a BIMSTEC Port Network to facilitate knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and integrated port logistics planning.

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Upskilling the Maritime Workforce

A vital technical session underscored the urgent need for skilling and capacity building in the maritime sector. With rising demand for digital port operations, green shipping, and modern shipbuilding, the region must invest in:

• Maritime education and training

• Public-private partnerships for skilling

• Shipyard and port management expertise

The discussion concluded with recommendations for establishing centres of excellence across member countries and enhancing exchange programs to build a competitive workforce for the future.

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Ministerial Engagements

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, visited Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in the morning, reviewing India’s shipbuilding progress. He later chaired discussions at the Dredging Corporation of India, focusing on improving dredging efficiency and port maintenance.

Dr. M. Angamuthu, Chairperson of Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA), actively participated in the conclave sessions and emphasized VPA’s role as a key player in regional maritime integration.

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Conclusion

The 2nd BIMSTEC Ports Conclave continues to pave the way for a unified maritime vision, aiming to transform the Bay of Bengal into a hub of sustainable trade, tourism, and technology-driven port operations. With a focus on inclusivity and collaboration, BIMSTEC countries are charting a future where the sea connects more than it separates.