Adani Ports, NMDC And Vale Brazil Partner To Develop SEZ-Based Iron Ore Ecosystem

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), through its subsidiary Adani Gangavaram Port Limited, has signed a strategic memorandum of understanding with state-run NMDC Limited and Vale S.A. of Brazil to develop an iron ore ecosystem at Gangavaram Port.

The MoU was signed at the India-Brazil Business Forum Summit during the official visit of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, in the presence of Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, highlighting the growing strategic partnership between the two nations.

The agreement establishes a framework for developing an iron ore blending facility and a dedicated Special Economic Zone (SEZ) at Gangavaram Port.

Boost to East Coast Export Value Chain

Under the collaboration, the three entities will jointly develop, operationalise and manage an integrated SEZ-based ecosystem for blending, value addition and commercialisation of iron ore.

Ashwani Gupta, Whole-time Director and CEO of APSEZ, said, “This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to building resilient, future-ready infrastructure that strengthens India’s position in global supply chains.”

He added that by integrating high-quality mineral logistics with advanced port capabilities, the initiative would support industry requirements and contribute to broader economic growth.

The project is designed to enhance efficiency, scale and global competitiveness in mineral processing and trade, particularly along India’s east coast.

Capacity Expansion And Valemax Capability

With the development, Gangavaram Port’s capacity is expected to increase to 75 MMT, positioning it as a major hub for iron ore exports in India and the region.

Gupta said, “Our partnership with NMDC and Vale will help establish a modern, efficient, and sustainable ecosystem for the iron ore sector on the East Coast. Gangavaram Port is poised to become the first port in India capable of handling Valemax vessels, the world’s largest Very Large Ore Carriers (VLOCs).”

The collaboration includes mechanised berthing and cargo-handling facilities capable of accommodating Valemax vessels with carrying capacity of up to 400,000 MMT, along with end-to-end yard management, blending operations and vessel handling to streamline supply chains.

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