Gateway cargo services at the Vizhinjam Port (Vizhinjam International Container Transhipment Terminal) (VICTT) are now slated to start by January 2026, following a delay from the earlier launch target of November 2025. The revised schedule was issued during a stakeholders’ consultation organised by the Customs Department, signalling progress toward the port’s commercial operational phase.
Technical Adjustments Push Revised Launch Date
Officials highlighted that minor technical setbacks had prevented the opening in November. The terminal’s first gateway operations will enable export–import cargo movements, allowing South Indian industries to connect directly with global shipping routes. Businesses are expected to benefit from improved transit times and reduced reliance on intermediate ports such as Colombo and Singapore.
Vizhinjam Port will give Boost to Trade Competitiveness and Economic Growth
Industry experts believe Vizhinjam’s development will transform India’s southern maritime economy. Once second-phase operations attract a higher number of direct liner services, freight costs could drop substantially, supporting exporters of perishables, electronics and manufacturing goods.
The port is also projected to drive employment generation in logistics, warehousing, trucking, marine services and port-based industries, enhancing regional economic activity across Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Stakeholders Highlight Operational Requirements
Attendees requested that customs-cleared, seal-intact containers from centres such as Tuticorin, Kollam and Kottayam, along with nearby ICDs, be permitted entry into Vizhinjam. Additional proposals included:
- Bonded movement of imported containers
- Barge transport from neighbouring ports
- Dedicated express clearances for sensitive cargo
Customs officials indicated that these proposals are under active review. Several key agencies — including scientific institutions and medical research bodies — have shown interest in channelling shipments through Vizhinjam to gain faster access.
About Vizhinjam Port
Vizhinjam International Seaport is located on the southern coast of Kerala, India. It lies in Vizhinjam, a coastal town situated about 20 km south of Thiruvananthapuram, the state capital.
📌 Geographical Highlights
- Coordinates: ~8.37° N latitude, 76.99° E longitude
- Coastline: Arabian Sea
- Proximity to International Shipping Route: Just 10 nautical miles from the world’s busiest east–west international maritime trade route
- Nearby Landmarks: Close to Kovalam beach and Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (~16 km)
Why is this location strategically important?
- Requires minimal dredging due to natural deep-water depth (~18–20 metres)
- Potential to emerge as a global transhipment hub
- Reduced dependency on other hub ports like Colombo, Singapore and Dubai
Exam-Oriented Facts
- India’s first deep-water transshipment port
- Located in Vizhinjam, Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala
- Very close to international maritime routes → low deviation for shipping lines
- Gateway cargo operations expected to start January 2026
- Delay attributed to technical readiness and system upgrades
- Port expected to improve India’s direct container transshipment capacity
- Economic benefits include job creation and reduced shipping costs
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