Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan declared that full-fledged Export-Import (EXIM) operations at Vizhinjam International Seaport will start on August 18, marking a significant milestone for Kerala’s economic growth and India’s maritime sector. This move will elevate Vizhinjam from a transshipment port to a complete international gateway for imports and exports.
The Chief Minister is set to kick off the first export container, officially launching the port’s EXIM activities. Following this, the ‘Mission Samudra’ Business Summit will convene, uniting global shipping companies, logistics firms, exporters, investors, and industry leaders.
The summit will showcase Kerala’s vision for economic development driven by the maritime sector, with the official launch of Mission Samudra, the state’s long-term maritime development initiative. Developed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model between the Government of Kerala and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), Vizhinjam International Seaport has rapidly become one of the world’s fastest-growing container ports.
In just 18 months of commercial operations, the port has managed 2 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) and has hosted some of the world’s largest mother vessels, solidifying its status as a top-tier maritime hub. The introduction of EXIM services, part of the state government’s 100-day action plan, will establish Vizhinjam as a comprehensive export-import gateway.
The government anticipates that this initiative will lower cargo transportation expenses, enhance supply chain efficiency, boost exporters’ competitiveness, attract new investments, and generate fresh job opportunities. The launch of EXIM operations signifies a significant milestone for Mission Samudra, aiming to position Kerala as one of India’s premier maritime and logistics hubs by integrating ports, logistics, manufacturing, inland waterways, and multimodal connectivity.
