Thiruvananthapuram: Full-fledged export-import (EXIM) operations at the Vizhinjam International Seaport are scheduled to commence on August 18. This milestone will officially transition the facility from a transhipment hub into a comprehensive international cargo gateway. Chief Minister V D Satheesan will flag off the first export container, which will be followed by the 'Mission Samudra' business summit.

The high-profile summit will bring together global shipping lines, logistics companies, exporters, investors and industrial leaders. Along with the official launch of 'Mission Samudra', the state government will present its strategic vision for Kerala's maritime economic development during the conclave.

Developed through a public-private partnership (PPP) model between the Government of Kerala and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone, Vizhinjam has rapidly emerged as one of the fastest-growing container ports globally. It has already proven its capability as a world-class maritime hub by handling 20 lakh TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) containers within just 18 months of commercial operations and successfully hosting some of the world's largest motherships.

The rollout of EXIM services, included in the state government's 100-day holiday action programme, will establish Vizhinjam as a complete export-import gateway. The move is expected to drastically reduce freight transport costs, enhance supply chain efficiencies, boost export competitiveness, and generate significant new investments and employment opportunities.

The commencement of EXIM activities marks a monumental milestone for 'Mission Samudra', the state government's long-term maritime development project. The mission aims to transform Kerala into India's premier maritime and logistics hub by seamlessly integrating ports, logistics, manufacturing zones, inland water transport and multimodal connectivity.

As India's first deep-water transhipment port and South Asia's first fully automated container terminal, Vizhinjam will continue to operate as a common-user facility, offering equitable services to all shipping lines. This operational structure is poised to significantly strengthen India's position in global maritime trade.