V.O. Chidambaranar (VOC) Port Authority successfully hosted a strategic Roadshow in Tiruppur, aimed at strengthening trade relations with the region’s vital Textile, Garment, and Coir sectors. The initiative was designed to address stakeholder concerns, showcase port capabilities, and extend support in light of recent changes in international trade dynamics.
Held under the theme “Tuticorin Port: Your Preferred Direct Gateway to Global Markets,” the event saw strong participation, with over 100 industry representatives from Tiruppur, Pollachi, and Karur attending. Key trade bodies, including the Tiruppur Exporters’ Association, Pollachi Chamber of Commerce, and Karur Textile Association, were present to engage with VOC Port officials.
Shri Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, Chairperson of VOC Port Authority, emphasized the Port’s commitment to supporting northern hinterland industries: “The Tiruppur, Pollachi, and Karur regions are the powerhouse of the state’s export economy. This Roadshow marks a strategic commitment from VOC Port to act as a seamless and competitive maritime gateway for these industries. Our goal is not just to offer vast capacity, but to ensure unparalleled cost efficiency and convenience, making us the preferred port for the textile and coir trade in the South.”
Key Operational Highlights and Incentives
VOC Port showcased a range of initiatives to enhance cost-efficiency and streamline logistics for exporters:
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Direct Export Facility: The 24/7 Direct Port Entry (DPE) facility, commissioned in April 2025, promises faster container throughput and smoother operations.
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Cost-Efficiency Measures: Exporters were briefed on financial benefits, including a 50% rebate on Vessel Related Charges (VRC) for coastal imports—particularly from Kandla—and extended free storage for coastal containers.
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Customized Engagement: Strategic breakout sessions focused on Tiruppur, Pollachi, and Karur, addressing issues such as incentive schemes, road and rail connectivity improvements, and container availability.
Direct Engagement with Trade Bodies
A highlight of the Roadshow was the Open House Discussion, where Shri Purohit and Deputy Chairman Shri Rajesh Soundararajan interacted with senior trade representatives to discuss critical topics including infrastructure needs, mainline connectivity, commercial aspects, and customs procedures.
An interactive one-on-one session allowed exporters to directly raise concerns, receive tailored solutions, and formalize follow-up commitments from the Port Authority, ensuring continuous engagement and actionable outcomes.
Robust Port Infrastructure
The Roadshow also showcased VOC Port’s world-class facilities:
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Terminal Capacity: Two container terminals with a combined capacity of over 1 million TEUs.
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Deep Draft: Working draft of 14.20 metres, accommodating vessels up to 8,000 TEUs.
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High Productivity: Terminal throughput exceeding 30 container moves per hour, matching global standards.
With this initiative, VOC Port Authority reaffirmed its role as a strategic maritime hub, reinforcing its commitment to supporting exporters and promoting Tamil Nadu’s textile, garment, and coir sectors in global markets.
