Kerala Ports Minister VN Vasavan announced on Wednesday that Kerala’s Vizhinjam International Port has reached a historic milestone in record time, marking its emergence as a key player in global maritime trade.
Within just nine months of starting commercial operations, the port has processed over 1.012 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), exceeding initial estimates by more than three times, the minister said.
He further stated, “When operations began on December 3, 2024, the concession agreement had estimated that the port would handle around 300,000 containers in its first year. Instead, Vizhinjam has already tripled that figure and is now on track to process 1.3–1.4 million TEUs by December 2025. Such rapid scaling has stunned the global shipping industry, where only a handful of ports have exceeded installed capacity within their debut year.”
Vasavan further highlighted that in less than twelve months, over 460 vessels have called at Vizhinjam, including 27 ultra-large container ships nearly 400 metres long.
“Notably, the port became the first in South Asia to berth the world’s largest cargo vessel, MSC Irina. Another landmark achievement was handling 10,576 containers from a single vessel, MSC Paloma, setting a new Indian record,” he asserted.
According to the minister, the port’s swift rise has been made possible through efficient operations by Adani Vizhinjam Port, support from the state government, cooperation with local fishing communities, and strong partnerships with global shipping lines.
Automation and Inclusivity
Vizhinjam is also the first automated container terminal in South Asia, equipped with 24 automated yard cranes and 8 semi-automated ship-to-shore cranes.
Women operators from nearby communities are among those managing these advanced systems, demonstrating both technological progress and inclusive participation.
The port’s strategic connectivity has played a vital role in its success.
Direct services now link Vizhinjam to Europe, the United States, Africa, and China, cutting India’s reliance on transhipment hubs such as Colombo, Dubai, and Singapore.
“This shift is likely to save the Indian economy crores in additional logistics costs, while boosting Kerala’s position on the global trade map,” Vasavan said.
Road and rail infrastructure to the port is also advancing steadily, ensuring smooth connectivity to the hinterland.
With this strong beginning, Vizhinjam has emerged as a symbol of India’s maritime ambitions, positioning Kerala as a pivotal gateway for international commerce.
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