Adani Port to Develop SEZ at Vizhinjam to Boost Port-Led Growth.

Adani Ports & SEZ is set to develop a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) at Vizhinjam, aiming to replicate the success of its Mundra port and foster port-led development in the region, according to Harikrishnan Sundaram, Head of Container Business at Adani Ports & SEZ.

Speaking at the ‘Beyond the Port: Transforming Kerala into a Global Economic Powerhouse’ session during the Vizhinjam Conclave, Sundaram emphasized the crucial role of an industrial ecosystem in driving the growth of ports.

Sundaram highlighted Vizhinjam’s potential, noting that no Indian port has handled over one million TEUs (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units) in its first year of operation. To support this growth, Adani Ports plans to invest in necessary infrastructure, including SEZs, logistics hubs, and warehouses. He cited Jebel Ali Port in the UAE as a successful model, saying it helped fuel the country’s economic transformation and could serve as a blueprint for Vizhinjam.

He also stressed the need for strong multi-modal connectivity via road, rail, and inland waterways to ensure seamless trade operations and maximize economic potential. He called for government collaboration to enhance this connectivity.

Ratnesh Jha, Executive Director of the UN Global Compact Network, highlighted Kerala’s progress in social development, particularly through community-based self-help groups empowering women. However, he called for a balanced approach to economic growth that maintains the state’s strong social framework, advocating for inclusive and sustainable development.

KR Jyothilal, Additional Chief Secretary, assured that Kerala has the necessary energy capacity to meet the needs of Vizhinjam Port, noting the state’s focus on water-based energy sources and solar power for sustainability.

Shyam Kapur, CEO of Sharaf Group, praised Kerala’s economic resilience and rapid recovery from natural disasters like floods. He also urged the state to adopt policies that are more welcoming to foreign residents and investors, similar to those in the UAE, to boost investment and economic growth.

HBL