Dubai-based Sharaf Group has committed Rs 50 billion for the development of an inland container terminal. Construction is set to begin once the necessary land is allocated by the government. The investment, initially pledged during the Vizhinjam Conclave in January, was formally secured through an Expression of Interest (EoI) at the Invest Kerala summit.

Sharaf Group, which operates one of India’s largest inland container depots (ICDs) on 110 acre in New Delhi and manages a network of 47 rail connections across the country, is expected to enhance Vizhinjam’s appeal to international investors.

In total, 12 companies have expressed interest in projects with investment ranges between Rs 500 million and Rs 50 billion. The launch of domestic cargo operations at Vizhinjam port is expected to accelerate these developments. The state government is responsible for identifying and providing land for these initiatives, with the process already underway.

Additionally, Vizhinjam International Port has been included in the Jade Service (JADE) of MSC, the world’s largest shipping company. This designation will position the port as a key hub for South Asia, facilitating large vessel operations and high container volumes. MSC’s Jade Service connects major ports globally, enhancing Vizhinjam’s strategic importance.

With trial runs completed, Vizhinjam is fully prepared for operational expansion. The port recently handled its 200th ship, AS Alva, and has managed 3.98 lakh TEU containers. The first MSC vessel under the Jade service, MSC Mia, a 400-meter-long ship with a 22,000 TEU capacity, is expected to arrive soon.

News source: The New Indian Express