Thiruvananthapuram: Giving a major boost to Kerala's development ambitions, direct and full export-import (EXIM) operations at Vizhinjam International Port will begin on Tuesday, August 18. Until now, the port has primarily handled transshipment operations, involving the transfer of cargo from one ship to another. With the commencement of EXIM operations, direct international trade will also be possible from Vizhinjam.

Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan will flag off the first export containers at a ceremony to be held on Tuesday morning. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal will be the chief guest. The 'Mission Samudra' project, aimed at the comprehensive industrial and logistics development of Kerala, will also be launched at the venue.

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Under the ₹400-crore project, Vizhinjam is set to be developed as a major maritime economic zone. The project envisages connecting Kerala's 600-kilometre coastline and developing eight industrial clusters and three new cities.

Exporters from Kerala and other southern states who previously routed their cargo through ports in Colombo, Singapore and Dubai will now be able to ship goods directly from Vizhinjam to international markets, including Europe. This is expected to reduce both transit time and costs.

Cargo shipped to Europe through the new route can reach its destination within 24 days, around 10 days faster than existing routes. Shipping major MSC has also included Vizhinjam in its prestigious 'Jade Service'.

For Vizhinjam's first direct export, Thiruvananthapuram-based Nilamel Exports has booked the first container. The container, carrying food products, has been processed through Customs House Agent Aspinwall and Company.

Located just 10 nautical miles from the international shipping route, Vizhinjam's transition to full EXIM operations is expected to open up new international markets for Kerala's agricultural produce, spices, cashew and handloom products.