First Export Container to Depart Vizhinjam on August 18, Marking EXIM Start

On 18 August, Vizhinjam International Seaport will dispatch its inaugural export container, officially kicking off full export‑import (EXIM) operations as announced by Kerala’s Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan. This milestone transforms the port from a transshipment hub into a full‑fledged international trade gateway. The launch will be accompanied by the Mission Samudra Business Summit, which will host leading global shipping lines, logistics firms, exporters, investors and industry leaders to present Kerala’s maritime growth strategy and unveil the “Mission Samudra” long‑term development blueprint. Built under a public‑private partnership with Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone, Vizhinjam has already processed 2 million TEU within 18 months of commercial activity and welcomed some of the world’s biggest mother vessels, placing it among the fastest‑expanding container ports worldwide. The state government expects the EXIM services to lower freight expenses, streamline supply chains, boost exporters’ competitiveness, attract fresh investments and create additional jobs.