Japan's Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) and the Shipping Corporation of India have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on tugboat operations in India, reports Saint Petersburg's PortNews.

The agreement was formalised on 27 October during India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai. It aims to meet rising demand for tug services as port activity grows, with container cargo expected to increase 6-8 per cent annually and energy cargo by 3-5 per cent over the next decade.

The partnership supports the Indian government's Green Tug Transition Programme, which targets conversion of all tugboats at major ports to low-emission models by 2040 to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.

MOL, which operates tug services in Japan, Hong Kong and Vietnam, will contribute expertise in safe operations and alternative-fuel technologies. SCI will provide its local network to enhance tugboat services across Indian ports.

MOL said the cooperation will improve vessel handling safety and help lower emissions from port operations.

Mitsui OSK Lines is a Tokyo-based joint-stock company listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, with operations in bulk, tanker, LNG, car carrier and logistics services.

Shipping Corporation of India is a public limited company under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. It offers liner, bulk and offshore services and manages vessels for government and commercial clients.