Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, hailed a historic moment for Vizhinjam Port as it welcomed its first mothership vessel, 'San Fernando', operated by Maersk, the world’s second-largest shipping company. Arriving with over 2,000 containers, this event marks a significant leap for India in global trans-shipment operations.

In a statement on social media, Gautam Adani described the occasion as a pivotal day for Vizhinjam Port, emphasizing its role in India’s maritime logistics and its positioning as a key player in global trade routes. "This milestone marks India's entry into global trans-shipment and ushers in a new era in India's maritime logistics, positioning Vizhinjam as a key player in global trade routes. Jai Hind," he underscored.

The arrival of the mothership elevates Adani Group’s Vizhinjam Port to the ranks of major global ports, expected to be among the top six or seven ports worldwide. A formal inauguration ceremony is scheduled for Friday, with dignitaries including Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, and Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd (APSEZ) Managing Director Karan Adani in attendance.

APSEZ, a subsidiary of Adani Group, operates strategically positioned ports and terminals across India, commanding 27% of the country’s total port volumes and handling 44% of the container cargo as of FY24. The group's extensive port network spans both the western and eastern coasts of India, contributing significantly to the nation's maritime trade capabilities.

The development at Vizhinjam Port underscores India's ambition to strengthen its maritime infrastructure and enhance its standing in global trade, facilitated by the strategic vision and operational prowess of APSEZ under Gautam Adani’s leadership.