CBIC Notifies Vizhinjam As Customs Port, Allowing Exim Cargo Operations From August 18, 2026

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has notified Vizhinjam International Seaport as a customs port, clearing the way for export-import (Exim) cargo operations from August 18, 2026, as per a Business Standard report.  

The port has so far operated only as an international transshipment hub since commercial operations started in July 2024. With the latest notification, it will be able to handle both import and export cargo under customs supervision. 

Exim Operations to Begin with Restrictions 

The customs notification places conditions on cargo handling as the port does not yet have a designated Container Freight Station (CFS). Imports will be limited to Full Container Load (FCL) containers eligible for Direct Port Delivery (DPD).  

These containers must be moved directly from the terminal to the importer's premises within 48 hours of arrival. On the export side, only factory-stuffed, self-sealed or Customs-sealed FCL containers under Direct Port Entry (DPE) will be accepted.  

Loose cargo, Less-than-Container Load (LCL) shipments, de-stuffing and containers requiring CFS examination will not be permitted until a CFS is operational.  

The CBIC has also allowed road movement of containers between Vizhinjam and notified Inland Container Depots, Special Economic Zones, Container Freight Stations and Land Customs Stations. 

Operations Since Commercial Launch 

Developed through a public-private partnership between the Kerala government and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), the port has handled only transshipment cargo since opening.  

According to the port operator, Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd (VISL), the facility handled 2 million TEUswithin 18 months of commercial operations. It has also received several large container vessels during this period. 

Supporting Infrastructure Under Development 

Road connectivity to the port has already been completed. A proposed 10-km railway line, including a 9-km tunnel, will connect Vizhinjam to the Balaramapuram railway line between Thiruvananthapuram and Nagercoil.  

Customs regulation of Exim cargo will be carried out with support from agencies including the Mercantile Marine Department, Port Health Organisation, Bureau of Immigration, Coastal Police, authorised banks and port security authorities. 

Read More: India’s Steel Production Grows in Q1 FY27 As Crude Steel Reaches 42.1 Million Tonnes, Consumption Rises 8.3%! 

Conclusion 

From August 18, Vizhinjam International Seaport will handle Exim cargo alongside its transshipment operations. Import and export activities will be carried out under the operational conditions specified by the CBIC. 

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