Kerala products to explore world market: Vizhinjam port to begin EXIM cargo operations today

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Exports will begin from Vizhinjam to 107 countries, including America and Europe, from Tuesday. A dry container of Nilamel Exports, which operates in Kinfra and Sasthamangalam, is heading to Valencia, Spain, with food products. The ship will go directly to Spain from Vizhinjam. Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan will flag off.

Processed fish, vegetables, fruits, honey, flowers, spices, Kudumbashree products, food and seafood, cashew nuts, coir, and clothing can now be exported. Exporters who were previously dependent on the ports of Singapore, Colombo, and Dubai will now rely on Vizhinjam. This is a big boost to small and medium entrepreneurs.

MSC Shipping Company announced two services for exports from Vizhinjam. The first is the Himalaya Express to Portugal, Valencia, Barcelona in Spain, and Italy. The next is the India-Africa service to South-West African countries such as Côte d'Ivoire, Abidjan, Tema, and Lomé. This service includes the African ports that import the most cashew nuts to Kerala. Cashew nuts can now be unloaded in Vizhinjam without depending on Thoothukudi port. The Chief Minister will announce the 'Mission Samudra' project to make Kerala a port city today. Rs 400 crore has been allocated for this project.

1. There are 2 weekly services to America. MSC BERYL takes 37 days, and MSC Mary-Leslie takes 44 days to reach America. It takes 60-65 days via Kochi. The Vizhinjam-Spain service takes only 28 days. While it takes 90 days to reach Canada via other ports, 40-45 days are sufficient from Vizhinjam. Terminal handling charges are also very low.

2. MSC has services to Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Albania, Adriatic, East Mediterranean, Greece, West Turkey, Mexico, Portugal, North Africa, South America, Canada, West Africa, Baltimore, Boston, Miami, and Norfolk in the United States. Ships that have contracts with MSC will now also be able to reach Vizhinjam.