Lloyd’s List Intelligence opens Centre of Excellence for Data & Technology in Chennai

This week, Lloyd’s List Intelligence will inaugurate its new Centre of Excellence for Data & Technology in Chennai, India. The centre will be one of the company’s largest global offices and underscores both the growing demand for high-quality maritime data and the ever-increasing importance of Asia-Pacific trade routes.

Chennai, a historic port city and home to the Indian Maritime University, is also one of the world’s fastest-growing hubs for engineering and technology. With a deep pool of highly skilled professionals, it provides an ideal location for Lloyd’s List Intelligence to expand its capabilities. The Government of Tamil Nadu has pledged its support for the project, signing a memorandum of understanding on 3 September 2025.

The new Centre of Excellence will create more than 200 roles in data analysis, software development, and quality assurance. The Chennai-based team will play a critical role in the company’s daily operations, including the cleaning and delivery of over one billion maritime data points every day, ensuring customers worldwide receive timely, accurate, and actionable intelligence.

This expansion comes at a time when maritime risk is becoming increasingly complex. Geopolitical instability, evolving regulations, and the adoption of new technologies across the maritime landscape are raising the stakes for shipping, insurance, finance, and government stakeholders. As the most trusted global provider of maritime data and trade intelligence, Lloyd’s List Intelligence helps organisations navigate uncertainty, manage compliance, and keep global trade moving.

Founded in a London coffee house over 290 years ago as a trusted meeting place for sailors, merchants, and shipowners, Lloyd’s List Intelligence has grown into the world leader in maritime trade intelligence, with a presence across four continents and a reputation for innovation and integrity.

Waqas Samad (pictured), CEO, said: “Our mission is to help customers understand and manage risk across every maritime interaction. That means not only providing the most reliable data, but also ensuring it is delivered in ways that are faster, smarter, and easier to use.

“Our new Chennai Centre of Excellence sits at the heart of this ambition, bringing together world-class talent to enhance our products and services, strengthen data security, and accelerate innovation so our customers can act with confidence in an increasingly complex trading environment.”

Arpan Chatterjee, Vice President Operations, said: “Our new hub reflects our commitment to delivering greater value for our customers while investing in world-class talent. Chennai is a dynamic city with remarkable energy and resources, and we are excited to build our presence here as an active and valued member of the local business community.”