Dubai-based firm begins coastal shipping service from Kochi

Kochi, Feb 28 Sima Marine India Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Dubai-based Simatech Shipping, launched coastal container shipping service from Kochi connecting Mangalore in Karnataka, Goa and Mundra in Gujarat.

Simatech Shipping is one of the largest container feeder servicing companies in the world operating 54 ships with partners, including 15 of its own.

C.F. George, managing director of Simatech Shipping Dubai and Sima Marine India, said the company sees good growth potential in the India coastal segment which has been untapped for a long time now.

"We believe a consistent service with competitive rates can attract more coastal cargo movement which is now moving by road. Indian government is promoting container coastal movement by offering incentives," said George.

For the exclusive coastal service operations in the country, the Indian subsidiary has also acquired two 1,500-TEU container vessels, Sima Godavari and Sima Narmada, which have already started their operations now.

These ships are now sailing with Indian flag to work within the cabotage law.

As a strategic move, the company has also started a fully-equipped back office operation facility in Kochi.

"Soon, our new back office in Kochi will be in a position to support our entire global operations. All our ship planning and accounting operations will be done in Kochi," added George.