An MoU was signed at the India–Brazil forum to develop an SEZ and blending hub; Gangavaram capacity is to rise to 75 MMT.
In a major step to strengthen India’s iron ore export ecosystem, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), NMDC and Vale S.A. have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding to develop iron ore exports through Gangavaram Port.
The MoU was executed by APSEZ’s subsidiary Adani Gangavaram Port Limited during the India–Brazil Business Forum Summit in New Delhi, held alongside the official visit of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The signing took place in the presence of Piyush Goyal, highlighting the growing strategic and commercial partnership between India and Brazil.
Under the agreement, the three partners will jointly develop, operate and manage an integrated iron ore blending facility and a dedicated Special Economic Zone (SEZ) at Gangavaram Port. The project aims to create a port-led ecosystem for iron ore blending, value addition and commercialisation, strengthening the export value chain on India’s East Coast.
Once operational, Gangavaram Port’s capacity is expected to rise to 75 million metric tonnes (MMT), positioning it as a major hub for iron ore exports from India and the region. A key feature of the collaboration is the development of fully mechanised berths and cargo-handling systems capable of accommodating Valemax vessels, the world’s largest Very Large Ore Carriers, with a carrying capacity of up to 400,000 tonnes.
The scope of the partnership includes end-to-end yard management, blending operations, and vessel discharge and loading, aimed at improving supply chain efficiency and global competitiveness in mineral logistics.
“This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to building resilient, future-ready infrastructure that strengthens India’s position in global supply chains,” said Ashwani Gupta, Whole-time Director and CEO of APSEZ. He added that Gangavaram Port is set to become the first port in India capable of handling Valemax vessels, marking a significant milestone for the country’s maritime and minerals sector.
With this initiative, Gangavaram Port is poised to emerge as a strategic gateway for global iron ore trade, reinforcing India’s ambition to become a competitive, port-led and future-ready maritime hub.
Source: Adani
