Vizhinjam International Seaport has entered a new phase of growth with the commencement of full-scale EXIM operations and the announcement of a Rs 16,000 crore Phase 2 expansion, a move set to transform the port into one of India’s largest transshipment and trade gateways.
Speaking at the launch of EXIM operations, Ashwani Gupta, CEO and Whole-time Director of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd. (APSEZ), said Vizhinjam is evolving into a strategic gateway that will connect Kerala’s businesses and talent with global markets while strengthening India’s maritime and trade ambitions.
Capacity to Rise to 5.7 Million TEUs
The Phase 2 expansion will increase Vizhinjam’s annual container handling capacity from 1.6 million TEUs to 5.7 million TEUs, making it one of the country’s most significant container hubs.
The project includes 1,200 metres of additional container berths, enhanced rail and road connectivity, logistics parks, warehousing infrastructure, bunkering facilities, a liquid jetty, and an integrated logistics ecosystem. The expansion is targeted for completion by December 2028 and is expected to generate more than 5,000 direct and indirect jobs.
With the new investment, the Adani Group’s total investment in Vizhinjam will reach around Rs 30,000 crore.
Major Boost for EXIM Trade
Gupta said the launch of EXIM operations will provide exporters with faster access to international markets, particularly benefiting Kerala’s key export sectors, including seafood, spices, cashew, wire products, and engineering goods.
Importers are also expected to benefit from quicker access to raw materials, improving supply chain efficiency and reducing logistics costs.
He added that shorter transit times and improved port connectivity will help micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) become more competitive while improving cash flow and creating greater economic value within the state.
Strong Early Performance
Highlighting Vizhinjam’s rapid growth, Gupta said the port handled more than 2.3 million TEUs in its first full year of operations and has already captured nearly 30% of India’s container transshipment market.
The port has also demonstrated its capability to handle ultra-large container vessels measuring nearly 400 metres in length, reinforcing its position as a world-class deep-water port.
Reducing Dependence on Foreign Transshipment Hubs
Currently, more than 75% of India’s transshipment cargo is routed through foreign ports. Gupta said Vizhinjam’s expanding EXIM operations will help bring a larger share of this cargo back to India, reducing transit times, lowering logistics costs, and strengthening the country’s supply chain resilience.
Mission Samudra to Drive Port-Led Development
At the event, V D Satheesan highlighted the importance of Mission Samudra, improved road and rail connectivity, and greater private investment to unlock Vizhinjam’s full economic potential. The state has also earmarked Rs 3,200 crore for land acquisition for the proposed Ring Road, a key infrastructure project supporting the port’s long-term growth.
With full-scale EXIM operations now underway and Phase 2 set to significantly expand capacity by 2028, Vizhinjam is poised to emerge as a major logistics, trade, and maritime hub connecting Kerala and India more efficiently with global shipping networks.