The Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board (APMB) and APM Terminals have signed an agreement to develop three major ports in the state—Ramayapatnam, Machilipatnam, and Mulapeta, through an investment of Rs 9,000 crore.

The pact, announced on 21 August, 2025 in the presence of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, aims to position Andhra Pradesh as the “eastern gateway” for maritime trade and a key logistics hub in India. APM Terminals, a subsidiary of global shipping giant AP Moller-Maersk, will develop modern terminals and advanced cargo-handling systems at these ports, expected to create around 10,000 direct employment.

CM Naidu urged officials to create an economic ecosystem around the ports, ensure low-cost cargo transport for neighbouring states, and prepare a comprehensive logistics plan covering road, rail, inland waterways, and air connectivity. The state is also planning a port or harbour every 50 km along its 1,000-km coastline.