Overview
- Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan flagged off the first export containers at Vizhinjam on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, formally starting full export‑import operations at the Adani‑operated deep‑water port.
- The Kerala government used the launch to unveil Mission Samudra, a port‑led ‘Port City’ plan backed by a Rs 400‑crore catalytic fund to develop eight industrial clusters, three new cities and coastal logistics infrastructure.
- Adani/APSEZ announced a Rs 16,000‑crore Phase 2 to raise annual capacity to 5.7 million TEUs, add 1,200 metres of berth and establish permanent rail links with an accelerated full‑phase target of December 2028.
- Port operators highlight Vizhinjam’s natural 18–24 metre draft and automated AI systems that let it handle ultra‑large container vessels and support direct EXIM services after handling more than 2 million TEUs during commercial operations.
- The ceremony saw notable political absences, and officials say immediate priorities are road and rail connectivity, ring‑road land acquisition (state commitment about Rs 3,200 crore) and mobilising private investment to convert trade capacity into local jobs and industry.