The Vizhinjam International Seaport is expected to create significant opportunities for startups and businesses in Kerala’s logistics, maritime and allied sectors. As the port expands its operations and supporting infrastructure, experts at Huddle Global 2026 have called on entrepreneurs to tap into emerging business opportunities across its growing ecosystem.
The opportunities were discussed during a panel session titled “Follow the Container: Where the Money Will Be Made in Vizhinjam’s Logistics Economy” at Huddle Global 2026, Asia’s biggest beachside startup event, organised by the Kerala Startup Mission.
The discussion was moderated by Vivek Krishna Govind, Senior Partner at Varma & Varma Chartered Accountants. The panel featured Jerome George, IAS, Managing Director of Vizhinjam International Seaport Limited; Pradeep Jayaraman, CEO of Adani Port and SEZ; Suresh Mathew, CEO of House of Nilamel; and Dr A. Biju Kumar, Vice Chancellor of Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS).
Three Major Infrastructure Projects by 2028-29
Jerome George said Vizhinjam International Seaport Limited is prioritising three major transportation infrastructure projects, targeted for completion by 2028-29. These projects are expected to strengthen connectivity and position Vizhinjam as a fully operational gateway port.
The proposed projects include a direct underground railway tunnel connecting Balaramapuram to the port, Kerala’s first cloverleaf interchange linking the port to National Highway 66, and an Outer Ring Road around Thiruvananthapuram.
The Outer Ring Road is expected to support the development of a major industrial growth corridor around the port.
George also highlighted the potential for Vizhinjam to develop into a bunkering hub and ship repair centre, supported by its strategic location close to major international shipping routes.
Startups Can Tap into Port’s Ancillary Ecosystem
Pradeep Jayaraman said the port’s main terminal operations are fully automated, creating opportunities for startups to focus on services and businesses in the ancillary ecosystem outside the port.
He noted that the commencement of export-import (EXIM) cargo operations would immediately increase demand for empty container parks, ship handling services and crew change facilities.
Jayaraman urged entrepreneurs to identify gaps in the emerging logistics ecosystem and develop innovative solutions to address them.
He also pointed to investment opportunities expected over the next two years in warehouse automation, AI-powered cargo handling and heavy engineering assembly units.
EXIM Cargo to Drive Wider Economic Benefits
Suresh Mathew said ship-to-ship transshipment operations currently account for most of the activity at Vizhinjam. However, the wider economic benefits for Kerala will become more visible when export-import cargo operations are fully established.
He estimated that completing the necessary infrastructure could take another three to five years, after which significant opportunities are likely to emerge across related industries.
The development of supporting services, logistics facilities and other port-linked businesses will be important in translating port activity into broader economic growth for the state.
Call for Maritime Skills and Blue Economy Startups
Dr A. Biju Kumar proposed establishing a Maritime Skill Academy and Skill Park in collaboration with universities to develop a specialised workforce for the port and maritime sectors.
He also suggested creating a Blue Economy Knowledge Cluster by bringing together central and state marine research institutions.
The proposed cluster could help convert research outcomes into commercial ventures through incubation centres, opening new opportunities for startups in marine technology, fisheries and related sectors.
As Vizhinjam’s infrastructure and cargo operations expand, the port is expected to create opportunities beyond shipping and transshipment. Experts believe startups that develop solutions in logistics technology, maritime services, skilled workforce development and the blue economy could play a significant role in shaping Kerala’s emerging port-led economy.
