Mangaluru: New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) has announced a 50% rebate on vessel-related charges for mainline container ships as part of an initiative to attract more container traffic and strengthen the port’s position as a maritime gateway.
Under the revised incentive structure, feeder-line container vessels will receive a 35% rebate, while mainline container vessels will be eligible for a higher rebate of 50%. The revised concessions are effective from November 3, 2026, to March 31, 2027.
Incentive aimed at increasing container traffic
The enhanced rebate is intended to encourage shipping lines to make more vessel calls at New Mangalore Port and increase the volume of containers handled there.
By reducing vessel-related operating costs, the port authority hopes to make the port more attractive to both feeder and mainline shipping operators. The move is also expected to improve the port’s competitiveness with other ports and support the expansion of its container-handling business.
Support for direct international shipping services
The incentive comes as New Mangalore Port works to expand its direct container shipping connectivity. The port has recently operationalised its dedicated container terminal and introduced a direct mainline service connecting Mangaluru with international and Indian ports.
The first direct mainline vessel, MV Hong An, called at the port as part of a service connecting Chittagong, Colombo, Mangaluru, Nhava Sheva and Mundra, with onward connectivity to Jebel Ali and Khalifa Port. The service is expected to offer exporters more shipping options and improve access to international markets. Rebate period and expected impact
The revised rebate scheme will remain in force until March 31, 2027. During this period, shipping lines operating feeder and mainline container services can benefit from the reduced vessel-related charges.
The initiative is part of NMPA’s efforts to attract additional container services, strengthen maritime connectivity and increase cargo movement through the port. Greater container traffic could also support exporters and businesses in Karnataka and neighbouring regions by providing more shipping options.
The port authority’s announcement marks another step in its efforts to develop New Mangalore Port as a competitive container-handling hub on India’s west coast.