Vizhinjam port sets new operational benchmarks in January, 2026

Vizhinjam port achieves record container throughput in January 2026, solidifying its status as a key global transshipment hub.

The Vizhinjam International Seaport, developed and operated by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ) under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with the Kerala government, has set another operational benchmark by consolidating its position as one of India’s fastest-growing container transshipment hubs. In January 2026, Vizhinjam recorded its highest-ever monthly container throughput of 1,23,092 Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs).

The post also achieved a series of operational milestones in January underlining both its execution capability and rising relevance in global shipping networks.

During the month, the port handled 62 vessels, the maximum processed there in a single month since operations began, and achieved its highest Gross Crane Rate (GCR) of 30.12 container lifts an hour. Together, these point to a sharp improvement in productivity at the port that began commercial operations a year ago.

The port has also moved up to the 83rd position worldwide among container ports by handling-volume. Since the commencement of operations, Vizhinjam has handled 740 vessels and 1.57 million TEUs, demonstrating a growth trajectory that compares favourably with established transshipment hubs in the region, said the port authorities in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday (February 5, 2026).

The port handled more than 50 Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCVs) with lengths exceeding 399 m between December 2024 and January 2026. Over 160 vessels handled during this period were longer than 300 m, while 50 vessels arrived with drafts exceeding 16 m.

The port also set several regional benchmarks during this phase. MSC Verona became the deepest-draft vessel ever handled in South Asia at 17.1 m, while MSC IRINA, currently the world’s largest container ship, also called at Vizhinjam.