The Vizhinjam International Seaport has received its first import container, marking a significant milestone in its development as a direct gateway for international imports into Kerala.
The container, booked from Ningbo, China, arrived aboard the vessel MSC Sabrina III on Saturday. The flag-off ceremony marking the commencement of import operations was performed by Jeromic George, Managing Director of Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd (VISL), according to an official statement.
The shipment was booked by Thiruvananthapuram-based BSG Logistics and Ship Chandlers Pvt Ltd on behalf of the city’s Altair Group. It contains engineered building boards used in the construction sector as an alternative to conventional plywood.
With the commencement of direct import operations, cargo can now be unloaded at Vizhinjam, cleared through customs and transported directly to markets across Kerala.
The development is expected to reduce the state’s dependence on other ports for handling imported cargo, while lowering transportation time and logistics costs for businesses. It will also enable Kerala to retain a greater share of revenue generated through cargo handling and associated logistics activities within the state.
The new import facility is expected to create employment opportunities across several sectors, including customs brokerage, freight forwarding, road transportation, warehousing and port-related services, particularly in Thiruvananthapuram and other southern districts.
The commencement of import services marks an important expansion of Vizhinjam’s operational capabilities beyond its transshipment activities. With direct import handling now underway, the port is strengthening its position as an international trade gateway serving the cargo requirements of Kerala’s business and industrial community.