India is currently in negotiations with Iran to secure its interests in the strategically vital Chabahar Port, especially as the U.S. sanctions waiver is set to expire soon. The Indian government is working to establish a local ports authority to manage the port, ensuring that operational rights can revert to India once sanctions are lifted. India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) has been managing the port since 2024 under a 10-year agreement with Iran, and India has invested around $120 million in the project. Chabahar serves as a key gateway for Afghanistan and Central Asian countries to access the Indian Ocean and is integral to India's trade strategy in the region. Experts warn that if India's presence weakens, China may seek to increase its influence at the port, which would be detrimental to India's strategic interests. The port is expected to facilitate trade agreements with Central Asian nations and is linked to the International North-South Transport Corridor.