Archive · 18 Jul 2026
Vizhinjam Port to Start Full EXIM Operations
The Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala, India, is starting full export-import (EXIM) operations on August 18, 2026.
This means the port will now handle goods being sent out of and brought into the country, not just transferring goods between ships.
The Kerala government and Adani Ports have worked together to build this port, which is one of the fastest-growing container ports in the world.
The port has already handled two million TEUs (a measure of cargo capacity) in just 18 months.
The start of EXIM operations is part of a bigger plan called 'Mission Samudra', which aims to make Kerala a leading hub for maritime and logistics.
The port will continue to be open to all shipping companies, helping to strengthen India's position in global trade.
Some people are happy about the economic benefits, while others are concerned about the environmental impact.
Vizhinjam International Seaport to commence full EXIM operations on August 18, 2026.
Chief Minister V D Satheesan will flag off the first export container.
The state government will organize the 'Mission Samudra' Business Summit, bringing together global shipping companies, logistics firms, exporters, investors, and industry leaders.
Vizhinjam is India's first deep-water transshipment port and South Asia's first fully automated container port.
The port has handled two million TEUs within 18 months of commencing commercial operations.
- Who
- Kerala government, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), global shipping companies, logistics firms, exporters, investors, industry leaders
- What
- Commencement of full export-import (EXIM) operations at Vizhinjam International Seaport
- When
- August 18, 2026
- Where
- Vizhinjam, Kerala, India
- Why
- To transform Vizhinjam into a full-fledged export-import gateway, reduce logistics costs, improve supply chain efficiency, enhance export competitiveness, and generate investments and employment
Government and Private Sector
Opposition and Environmentalists
Port Development
Government and Private Sector
The port's development is seen as a significant step towards economic growth, job creation, and enhancing Kerala's position in global maritime trade.
Opposition and Environmentalists
Critics argue that the port's development has led to environmental degradation and displacement of local communities.
- Port Location
- Vizhinjam, Kerala, India
- Port Type
- Deep-water transshipment and fully automated container port
- Commercial Operations Start
- Within 18 months of commencement
- First Export Container
- August 18, 2026
- Mission Samudra
- Kerala's long-term maritime development initiative
- Port Development Model
- Public-private partnership (PPP) between Kerala government and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ)
- Port Capacity
- Handled two million TEUs within 18 months
- Port Access
- Open-access, common-user port serving all shipping companies equally
Sources
Vizhinjam port to start full EXIM operations from Aug 18
Vizhinjam Port to launch full EXIM operations from August 18
Kerala: Vizhinjam International Seaport To Begin Full EXIM Operations From August 18, Boosting State's Maritime Trade Hub
Full EXIM operations at Vizhinjam Port from August 18: CM Satheesan
