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Vizhinjam Port Inaugurated: India’s First Deep-Water Transshipment Hub Set to Transform Maritime Trade




Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today officially inaugurated the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala, marking a historic milestone for India’s maritime sector and positioning the country as a major player in global shipping and logistics. 

Developed at a cost of approximately ₹88.67 billion  ($1.04 billion), under a public-private partnership between the Kerala government and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), Vizhinjam is India’s first dedicated deep-water container transshipment port.


Strategic Location and Advanced Capabilities

Located near the Kerala capital, Vizhinjam’s proximity to international shipping lanes-just 10 nautical miles away-gives it a unique advantage. 

The port boasts a natural depth of up to 20 meters, enabling it to accommodate some of the world’s largest container ships, which previously bypassed Indian ports in favor of Colombo, Dubai, or Singapore. 

The facility is semi-automated, featuring advanced cargo handling systems and India’s tallest ship-to-shore cranes, and is expected to handle up to 5 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) annually in its initial phase.


Economic Impact and Ambitions

The Vizhinjam port is projected to generate total revenues of ₹2.15 trillion ($25.16 billion) over the next 36 years, with Kerala’s share estimated at ₹350 billion ($4.10 billion). The state government expects to start receiving financial benefits by 2029, once the port reaches full operational capacity. 

Since trial operations began in July 2024, Vizhinjam has already handled over 250 container ships, reflecting rapid progress and strong interest from global shipping lines.


Prime Minister Modi, speaking at the inauguration, described Vizhinjam as a “symbol of new-age development” that will bring economic stability to Kerala and the nation. The port is also expected to significantly reduce logistics costs, boost exports, and create thousands of jobs in the region.


Regional and National Significance

Vizhinjam’s commissioning is a game-changer for India’s maritime ambitions. Previously, a large portion of India’s transshipment cargo was routed through foreign ports, especially Colombo. 

With Vizhinjam now operational, India aims to recapture this traffic, strengthen its supply chains, and reduce foreign exchange outflows.


The project is being developed in phases, with full completion targeted for 2028 and further investments expected to triple its cargo handling capacity. 

The port’s integration into major shipping routes is poised to make Kerala a gateway for trade between Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and beyond.


A New Era for Indian Shipping

The inauguration of Vizhinjam International Seaport marks a turning point for India’s role in global maritime trade. 

As the country’s first deep-water and semi-automated transshipment hub, Vizhinjam is set to enhance India’s competitiveness, attract investment, and solidify its status as a key player in the international shipping industry. 

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