Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan on Saturday announced that full-fledged EXIM (Export-Import) operations at Vizhinjam International Seaport will commence on August 18, marking what he described as a historic milestone in Kerala's economic growth and India's maritime sector.
With the launch of EXIM services, Vizhinjam will be transformed from a transshipment port into a full-fledged international gateway for exports and imports.
The Chief Minister will flag off the first export container, formally inaugurating the port's EXIM operations.
The inauguration will be followed by the 'Mission Samudra' Business Summit, bringing together global shipping companies, logistics firms, exporters, investors and industry leaders.
The summit will present Kerala's vision for maritime sector-led economic development, while Mission Samudra, the state's long-term maritime development initiative, will be officially launched.
Developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model between the Government of Kerala and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), Vizhinjam International Seaport has rapidly emerged as one of the world's fastest-growing container ports.
Within just 18 months of commencing commercial operations, the port has handled 2 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) and has welcomed some of the world's largest mother vessels, underscoring its emergence as a world-class maritime hub.
The launch of EXIM services, included in the state government's 100 day action plan, will establish Vizhinjam as a comprehensive export-import gateway.
The government expects the move to reduce cargo transportation costs, improve supply chain efficiency, enhance the competitiveness of exporters and attract fresh investments while creating new employment opportunities.
According to the Chief Minister's Office, the launch of EXIM operations marks a significant milestone for Mission Samudra, which seeks to transform Kerala into one of India's leading maritime and logistics hubs by integrating ports, logistics, manufacturing, inland waterways and multimodal connectivity.
India's first deep water transshipment port and South Asia's first fully automated container port will continue to function as an open access and common user facility, offering equal access to all shipping lines and further strengthening India's position in global maritime trade.
--IANS
