Vizhinjam port launches EXIM operations with ₹16,000 cr expansion

The maritime landscape of South Asia marked a landmark milestone as Vizhinjam International Seaport officially launched full-scale Export-Import (EXIM) operations, establishing India’s premier direct commercial gateway to global trade routes. The historic event was flagged off by Kerala Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan, who inaugurated the port’s first commercial export consignment destined for Valencia, Spain. Carrying frozen traditional food products packaged by Thiruvananthapuram-based Nilamel Exporters, the shipment demonstrated a dramatic efficiency leap in maritime logistics. Sea transit times to European markets are now slashed from nearly sixty days down to just twenty-four days by bypassing foreign transhipment stops in Colombo, Singapore, and Dubai.

This operational launch elevates Vizhinjam from a transhipment harbour into a dynamic commercial gateway capable of handling direct inbound and outbound international cargo. Addressing a gathering of international maritime representatives, government dignitaries, and commercial trade partners, Ashwani Gupta, CEO and Director of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), outlined an aggressive capital expansion plan to support growing cargo volumes. Underlining APSEZ's long-term commitment to building world-class port infrastructure, Gupta declared, 'We have decided to commit an additional ₹16,000 crore investment to expand the capacity from 1.6 million TEUs to 5.7 million TEUs. This expansion will transform Vizhinjam into one of the largest container hubs in the Indian Ocean region.'

The transition to direct EXIM operations provides transformative economic advantages by significantly lowering freight expenses and supply chain turnaround times for regional exporters. Businesses across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka can now ship key commodities, including spices, cashew, handlooms, marine exports, and manufactured goods, directly to international markets. Industries Minister P. K. Kunhalikutty emphasised that direct shipping routes eliminate intermediate vessel-to-vessel transfer fees, accelerating cash flows for small and medium enterprises while enhancing global product competitiveness.

Boasting a natural depth of 20 to 24 metres located just ten nautical miles from the primary east-west international shipping corridor, Vizhinjam seamlessly accommodates ultra-large container vessels without requiring extensive maintenance dredging. Powered by India’s first algorithm-driven, artificial intelligence-supported automated container handling system, the port guarantees superior processing speed and operational safety. By anchoring domestic EXIM traffic within native waters, Vizhinjam establishes a vital gateway for Indian commerce.