Vizhinjam International Seaport is set to transition from a transshipment hub into a comprehensive international cargo gateway, with full-fledged export-import (EXIM) operations scheduled to commence on August 18.
The launch is part of the Kerala government’s 100-day action plan and will enable the direct movement of export and import cargo to and from India. Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan will formally inaugurate the service by flagging off the inaugural export container.
Developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model with Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), Vizhinjam has rapidly emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing container ports, handling 2 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) within just 18 months of commencing commercial operations.
As India’s first deep-water transshipment port, it has a natural depth of 20 metres, enabling it to accommodate and berth the world’s largest container vessels with ease.
The seaport operates as a fully automated, common-user facility, providing equitable access to all global shipping lines and strengthening India’s maritime presence.
The commencement of full EXIM operations is expected to significantly reduce freight transportation costs, improve supply chain efficiency, and enhance the global competitiveness of Indian exports.
The port will continue to operate as an open-access, common-user facility, ensuring equal and non-discriminatory services for all international shipping lines.
Colombo Port currently dominates regional maritime trade, handling around 8.4 million TEUs annually. However, Vizhinjam Port is expected to challenge this position. With the completion of its second phase targeted for December 2028, the port’s capacity will increase by 3.5 times, reaching 5.7 million TEUs.
Coinciding with the launch of EXIM operations, the Kerala government will host the Mission Samudra Business Summit. The event will bring together global shipping companies, logistics firms, exporters, investors, and industry leaders.
During the summit, the government will present Kerala’s vision for maritime economic development and officially launch Mission Samudra, an initiative aimed at integrating the state’s ports, manufacturing hubs, multimodal transport networks, and inland waterways into a unified logistics ecosystem.