Kerala has taken a major step in its global trade journey as Chief Minister V D Satheesan on Tuesday flagged off two containers from Vizhinjam, marking the commencement of EXIM operations at the international seaport.
Satheesan was accompanied by Minister for Industries, Information Technology and Commerce P K Kunhalikutty and Congress MLA M Vincent.
Investor Discussions To Expand Vizhinjam Trade
The Chief Minister said the state government has held strategic discussions with diverse investor groups to explore opportunities to take export-import operations at Vizhinjam to the next level.
The government has also committed comprehensive support, regulatory facilitation and infrastructure backing to help investors expand global export activities through the port.
Satheesan said the government is focused on ensuring smooth commercial expansion as Vizhinjam moves into full-scale land-based EXIM operations.
CM Reviews Port Operations
Satheesan also visited Vizhinjam International Seaport and reviewed its operational readiness along with P K Kunhalikutty.
The review included a visit to the Vehicle Traffic Management System office as the port began handling full land-based EXIM cargo operations.
The Chief Minister described Vizhinjam as a project that could become a game changer in global shipping, opening a new phase of economic opportunities for Kerala.
Mission Samudra To Drive Development
Alongside the start of EXIM operations, the Kerala government is also set to launch Mission Samudra, a port-led industrial and logistics development scheme.
The initiative is expected to support the growth of industries, logistics infrastructure and investment around Vizhinjam, creating a wider ecosystem linked to the port.
First Export Container Sent To Spain
The start of regular EXIM operations follows the successful trial shipment of Vizhinjam’s first export container to Valencia in Spain.
The transition from trial operations to full-scale cargo movement marks an important step in establishing Vizhinjam as a major international trade gateway.
Vizhinjam’s Development
Vizhinjam is a deep-water port developed by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ) under a public-private partnership model at an estimated cost of Rs 8,867 crore.
The port was dedicated to the nation in May 2025 and received its commercial commissioning certificate in December 2024.
With EXIM operations now underway, investor outreach, government support and Mission Samudra are expected to play an important role in expanding Vizhinjam’s contribution to Kerala’s trade, logistics and industrial growth.
