Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has announced that Vizhinjam International Seaport will commence full-fledged EXIM (Export-Import) operations from August 18, marking a significant milestone in Kerala’s economic growth and India’s maritime sector.
With the launch of EXIM services, Vizhinjam will evolve from a transshipment port into a full-fledged international cargo gateway. The Chief Minister will ceremonially flag off the first export container on the inaugural day. The state government will also organise the ‘Mission Samudra’ Business Summit, bringing together global shipping lines, logistics companies, exporters, investors and industry leaders to present Kerala’s maritime growth vision and officially launch Mission Samudra.
“The commencement of full EXIM operations at Vizhinjam International Seaport marks a historic milestone in Kerala’s economic growth and India’s maritime journey. Vizhinjam is now transforming from a transshipment hub into a comprehensive international cargo gateway. This will significantly reduce logistics costs, improve supply chain efficiency, strengthen the competitiveness of our exporters, and attract new investments and employment opportunities. Through Mission Samudra, we are committed to positioning Kerala as one of India’s leading maritime and logistics hubs by integrating ports, logistics, manufacturing, inland waterways and multimodal connectivity. Vizhinjam’s success will further strengthen India’s position in global maritime trade,” Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan said.
Developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between the Government of Kerala and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), Vizhinjam International Seaport has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing container ports. Within just 18 months of commencing commercial operations, the port has handled over 2 million TEUs and successfully accommodated some of the world’s largest mother vessels, reaffirming its status as a world-class maritime hub.
The introduction of EXIM services, as part of the government’s 100-day action programme, is expected to reduce logistics costs, improve supply chain efficiency, enhance export competitiveness, and create new avenues for investment and employment across the state.
Mission Samudra is Kerala’s long-term maritime development initiative aimed at integrating ports, logistics, manufacturing, inland waterways and multimodal connectivity to establish the state as a premier maritime and logistics hub.
India’s first deep-water transshipment port and South Asia’s first fully automated container port, Vizhinjam will continue to operate as an open-access and common-user port, providing equal opportunities to all shipping lines while enhancing India’s role in global maritime commerce.
