Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan announced that Vizhinjam International Seaport will commence full-fledged export-import operations from 18 August.

The Chief Minister will flag off the first export container on 18 August, formally inaugurating commercial export-import operations.

The launch coincides with the Mission Samudra Business Summit, which will bring together global shipping companies, logistics firms, exporters, investors and industry leaders.

The state government will officially unveil Mission Samudra, a $320 million flagship initiative aimed at transforming Kerala into a port state by integrating maritime assets, infrastructure and industrial zones.

Developed under a public-private partnership between the Kerala government and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone, Vizhinjam has handled two million TEUs within just 18 months of commencing commercial operations.

The port has welcomed some of the world's largest mother vessels, establishing itself as one of the fastest-growing container ports globally.

India's first deep-sea transshipment port and South Asia's first fully automated container facility will continue to function as an open-access facility serving all shipping lines.

The launch of EXIM services, included in the state government's 100-day action plan, is expected to reduce freight transportation costs, improve supply chain efficiency and strengthen India's export competitiveness.

When gateway operations begin, 70 per cent of the port's cargo will remain transshipment containers, whilst the remainder will comprise gateway cargo. 

Source: Swarajya 

#theshippingtribune #latestnews #shippingnews #dailynews #Maritimenews #shippingindustry #news #media #newsupdate #maritime #shippingnewsworldwide