As Vizhinjam International Port gears up to become a vital node in India’s logistics and maritime ecosystem, key developments point to its growing strategic and commercial significance. The port, operated by Adani Ports, is preparing to initiate export-import (EXIM) operations and attract major trade volumes directly from Indian shores to Europe and beyond. Here’s a detailed overview of the developments shaping the port’s future:

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Key Developments at Vizhinjam International Port

Area	Details
Cargo Movement Interest	10 companies from sectors like apparel, retail, automotive are in talks to use Vizhinjam for cargo transport via road.
Direct Europe Connectivity	Enables exporters/importers to bypass transshipment hubs like Colombo, creating a direct maritime link to Europe.
Road Connectivity	Ongoing development to link the port with India’s hinterland; expected completion in 3–4 months.
Time & Cost Savings	Shipment times could reduce from 40–50 days to 25 days or less, improving competitiveness.
EXIM Share Projection	Port aims to handle 10–20% EXIM cargo within 3 years. Rail linkage is a long-term goal.
Operational Record	Since July 11, 2024, the port has handled 392 ships, including 23 ultra-large vessels, and 830,000 containers.
Current Capacity	1 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) annually.
Future Capacity	Planned expansion to 6.2 million TEU per year in future phases.
Phase 2 Expansion	Work on second phase to begin soon, aiming for infrastructure augmentation.

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Industry Engagement

Companies from the following sectors are currently engaged in cargo movement discussions:

• Apparel
• Retail
• Automotive
• Other Manufacturing Segments

These sectors are expected to be early adopters of Vizhinjam’s EXIM capabilities, leveraging its strategic location and improving inland connectivity.

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Strategic Importance

Vizhinjam International Port is positioned to:

• Reduce India’s dependence on foreign transshipment hubs.
• Improve shipping efficiency for time-sensitive and bulk commodities.
• Strengthen southern India’s role in global logistics networks.

With infrastructure upgrades, policy support, and private sector interest aligning, Vizhinjam is poised to transform into a major logistics hub—enhancing India’s maritime competitiveness on the global stage.