Keralam CM flags off Vizhinjam port EXIM operations, says this opens State’s development gateway to world
Highlighting Vizhinjam port’s advanced technology, including AI-powered automated systems, V.D. Satheesan says goods going through the seaport can now be exported to ports across all six continents in a short span of time
On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan inaugurated export-import (EXIM) operations at the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Thiruvananthapuram. The opening of the port, equipped with state-of-the-art AI-powered automated systems, was hailed as a significant step towards transforming the state's development. Satheesan emphasized that the port could now facilitate exports to ports on all six continents, highlighting its potential as a gateway to the global market.
The CM criticized the previous government for failing to ensure adequate rail and road connectivity to the port over the past decade, asserting that the state could have reaped "a hundred times the benefits" if the infrastructure had been completed earlier. He also announced plans to develop a port-related industrial ecosystem, instructing KINFRA and INKEL to acquire additional land surrounding the Vizhinjam area to maximize the port's potential.
During the inauguration, two containers, shipped by MSC to various European countries, were displayed. Satheesan mentioned that the exported items included traditional Kerala products such as idli, sambar, and pazampori. This move opens up opportunities for Keralam to showcase its export potential, including spices, handloom goods, cashew, and coir, on the global stage.
However, the event was notably attended by the absence of several political leaders. Opposition leader Pinarayi Vijayan was absent due to a scheduled CPI(M) State secretariat meeting, while the BJP reportedly boycotted the function over the State government's decision not to sing Vande Mataram during Independence Day celebrations. The event was also missing Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, along with BJP MLAs and the Thiruvananthapuram Mayor.
Satheesan, ahead of the inauguration, engaged in discussions with investor groups to explore opportunities for scaling up EXIM operations at Vizhinjam. He assured investors of regulatory facilitation, infrastructure support, and other assistance to expand their global export activities through the port. Satheesan emphasized that Vizhinjam is more than just a port; it is a gateway connecting Kerala to the world, and a catalyst for the state's next phase of development.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
