COSCO Shipping Restarts Kolkata–Singapore Direct Shipping Service, Boosting Bengal’s Trade Connectivity

Kolkata has received a significant boost in maritime connectivity as COSCO Shipping, one of the world’s largest container carriers, has reinstated its Singapore–Kolkata SKX1 shipping service.

The revival of this direct shipping line restores an important maritime link between Singapore, Southeast Asia’s leading transshipment hub, and Kolkata Port, Eastern India’s key gateway for trade and logistics.

The reinstated SKX1 service is expected to support the movement of containerized cargo across sectors such as industrial goods, machinery, chemicals, textiles, agricultural commodities, and consumer products. By enabling smoother and more efficient cargo movement, the route is likely to strengthen trade flows for businesses across Bengal and Eastern India.

The development comes at a crucial time when global supply chains are undergoing major shifts. As companies increasingly adopt the “China+1” strategy to diversify manufacturing and sourcing operations, India’s eastern region is emerging as an important beneficiary.

For Kolkata and West Bengal, the return of direct maritime connectivity with Singapore could improve supply chain efficiency, reduce logistics bottlenecks, and enhance the city’s role in international trade networks.

Industry observers believe that improved port connectivity and stronger shipping infrastructure can help position Kolkata as a more competitive logistics and trade destination in the Indo-Pacific region.

The restart of the Singapore–Kolkata shipping line also reflects renewed confidence in Eastern India’s growing trade potential, further strengthening Bengal’s economic and industrial outlook.