Vizhinjam International Seaport in Thiruvananthapuram
| Photo Credit:
PHOTO : NIRMAL HARINDRAN / THE HINDU
Vizhinjam International Port is set to commence full export-import (EXIM) operations on August 18, marking its transition from a transshipment hub to a full-fledged international cargo gateway.
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan will flag off the first export container on the occasion. The State Government will also host the ‘Mission Samudra’ business summit, bringing together global shipping companies, logistics firms, exporters, investors and industry leaders. The summit will showcase Kerala’s maritime economic development vision and formally unveil Mission Samudra.
Developed under a public-private partnership between the Kerala Government and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), Vizhinjam International Port has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing container ports. The port handled 2 million TEUs within 18 months of commencing commercial operations and has hosted some of the world’s largest mother vessels, underscoring its credentials as a global maritime hub.
The launch of EXIM services, part of the State Government’s 100-day action plan, will establish Vizhinjam as a comprehensive export-import gateway. The move is expected to lower freight transportation costs, improve supply chain efficiency, enhance export competitiveness and attract fresh investments while generating employment opportunities.
The commencement of EXIM operations represents a significant milestone in Kerala’s long-term maritime development strategy. Mission Samudra seeks to transform the State into a leading maritime and logistics hub by integrating ports, logistics infrastructure, manufacturing, inland waterways and multimodal connectivity.
Vizhinjam, India’s first deep-sea transshipment port and South Asia’s first fully automated container port, will continue to function as an open-access, common-user port for all shipping lines, further strengthening India’s position in global maritime trade, according to a press release issued by the Chief Minister’s Office.
Published on July 18, 2026
