Vizhinjam International Seaport is rapidly cementing its status as a key player in India’s maritime sector, achieving a significant milestone in February by handling the highest cargo volume among 15 major ports in southern and eastern India. This accomplishment is particularly notable given that the port’s trial operations began just eight months ago, with commercial operations running for only three months. Notably, Vizhinjam outperformed Chennai Port in cargo handling during this period.
Official data reveals that the Vizhinjam International Container Terminal processed 78,833 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) of cargo across 40 vessels in February.
Highlighting the port’s growing significance, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to transforming Vizhinjam into one of the world’s leading ports. “With its increasing prominence in global maritime trade, Vizhinjam is set to play a crucial role in Kerala’s economic growth, ensuring continued expansion and development,” he stated.
The chief minister also took to social media, tweeting, “Vizhinjam International Seaport continues its remarkable growth, ranking No. 1 among 15 ports in India’s southern & eastern regions in February. Handling 78,833 TEUs from 40 vessels, it reaffirms Kerala’s rising stature in global maritime trade—a key step in our development journey!”
Further reinforcing its commercial potential, Vizhinjam is set to receive its first ship from the Jade service on Thursday. The vessel, MSC Mia, with a capacity of nearly 24,000 TEUs, has already entered Indian waters. Additionally, the port currently accommodates six to seven ships daily, underscoring its growing role in the region’s trade and logistics landscape.
