New Delhi, August 14, 2026: Kerala’s Vizhinjam International Seaport is set to commence direct export-import (EXIM) cargo operations from August 18, marking a significant shift in the port’s role from a transshipment hub to a gateway for India’s overseas trade, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor said on Friday.
Tharoor welcomed the development, describing it as an important milestone that would enable Kerala to gain more direct economic benefits from the international port. He noted that around 60 per cent of the containers handled at Vizhinjam so far have been linked to international destinations.
With the launch of gateway operations, the port will handle cargo directly for Indian importers and exporters. In the initial phase, imports are expected to focus on full-container-load consignments eligible for direct port delivery, while exports will include factory-stuffed and sealed full-container-load cargo.
The commencement is expected to strengthen Kerala’s connectivity with global shipping networks, improve access to international markets for businesses in the region and enhance Vizhinjam’s strategic importance in India’s maritime logistics sector.
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