Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone chief executive for international ports and harbour services, Nicolai Friis says there is huge potential within the towage sector in India and the surrounding region.

This is driven by significant population growth and rising requirements for energy and food security through maritime trade - leading to significant investment in port infrastructure and supporting maritime services, such as towage.

Mr Friis says, during a video interview at Riviera’s 27th ITS Convention, Exhibition & Awards, in Dubai, that the need to provide these services will drive India’s tug newbuilding programmes in the future.

He adds the rising need for energy and food security in India, as the population expands rapidly, has led to infrastructure being upgraded and ports expanded. 

Adani Ports’ key strategy is to ensure supply chains remain uninterrupted for shipping lines, while serving governments and port authorities.

Outside of India, Adani is focusing its port and tugboat investment in the Middle East, Africa and south Asia to support developing nations in maritime trade.