Vizhinjam port is set to commence export-import operations, with Chief Minister V D Satheesan flagging off the first cleared containers on August 18, 2026.
Vizhinjam port is preparing for the official inauguration of its export-import operations, with Chief Minister V D Satheesan set to flag off the initial cleared containers on August 18, 2026, and the designated vessel expected to berth by August 31. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal will serve as chief guest at the inauguration. Located just 10 nautical miles from the major east-west international maritime route, Vizhinjam’s geographical positioning allows European-bound cargo to reach its destination in 24 days, 10 days faster than existing routes, prompting Mediterranean Shipping Company to integrate Vizhinjam into its direct Jade Service connecting Europe and Asia. Exporters previously shipping cargo via Colombo, Singapore and Dubai will now be able to send consignments directly from Vizhinjam, reducing transit time and logistics costs.
Thiruvananthapuram-based Nilamel Exports has become the first company to book a container at the port, with 4,040 kg of ready-to-eat and frozen foods processed through Customs House agent Aspinwall and Company. Up to 20 containers, including refrigerated units carrying frozen fruits and vegetables, are expected to be ready for loading when the vessel docks. The logistics for the maiden export consignment were handled by Waterline Shipping and Logistics Private Limited, a city-based Kerala Steamer Agents Association member employing 28 local fishermen. Manoj Nair, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Waterline Shipping and Logistics, said the port’s rapid transit timeline was reshaping South Indian freight routing, with enquiries from exporters in Bengaluru, Coimbatore, Tirupur and Chennai. The state government will simultaneously launch Mission Samudra, a port-led industrial and logistics development scheme backed by a Rs400 crore catalytic fund, with officials expecting the initiative to draw over ten times the public investment in private capital by 2031.
Source: The New Indian Express
