Vizhinjam Port to become export gateway; first container to be flagged off on August 18

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Vizhinjam International Seaport is set to become a full-fledged export-import (EXIM) port, marking a major milestone in Kerala's maritime sector. The first export container will be flagged off on August 18 by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan. With this, Vizhinjam will transform from a transshipment hub into a gateway port.

At present, Vizhinjam mainly handles transshipment operations, where containers are unloaded from large cargo ships and transferred to smaller vessels for distribution. Exporters currently depend on foreign ports, including Colombo, for direct export and import operations.

The launch of direct export and import services will position Thiruvananthapuram as a major global trade and logistics hub.

The move is also expected to bring direct benefits to the local economy. It is likely to create well-paying jobs for youngsters, attract more shipping companies, and increase port-related business. As trade grows, the state is expected to earn higher revenue through taxes and other economic activities.

The development will also encourage investments in IT and logistics parks, manufacturing units, and assembly facilities around the port.

The Kerala government will also organise the Mission Samudra Business Summit, bringing together global shipping companies, logistics firms, exporters, investors and industrialists. During the event, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan will officially unveil the state's maritime development vision under the Mission Samudra initiative.

Direct exports to reduce delays

At present, many exports from Kerala depend on ships arriving from other countries. Cargo is shipped only if there is enough space and commercial viability, often through ports like Kochi. This leads to significant delays. With direct export and import services from Vizhinjam, these delays are expected to reduce considerably. More international vessels are also expected to call at the port, improving trade connectivity.

The new facility will allow faster export of processed seafood, fruits, vegetables, honey, flowers, agricultural products, spices and Kudumbashree products without long waiting periods.

Industries and assembly units will also be able to directly import raw materials through Vizhinjam. Increased imports of raw cashew nuts are expected to benefit thousands of workers employed in Kerala's cashew processing industry.

India's pharmaceutical products, including affordable medicines, have strong demand across global markets. The new export facility is expected to benefit pharmaceutical manufacturers, Ayurveda businesses, IT companies, electronics manufacturing and assembly units, as well as startups.

Faster delivery and lower costs

• Export shipments to America via Kochi take 60–65 days, while shipments to Europe take around 40 days. From Vizhinjam, it will take only 35 days to America and 22 days to Europe.
• Freight transportation costs will decrease, and the supply chain will become more efficient. Increased exports will attract more investments. The region will also become a key player in maritime trade.
• Vizhinjam Port has handled 20 lakh containers within just 18 months.

"Vizhinjam Port will continue to function as a common-user port, providing equal access and services to all shipping companies."
- V D Satheesan
Chief Minister