Vizag port breaks into global top 20, aims for 90 mn tonnes by FY26

Visakhapatnam Port (VPT) has secured a spot among the world’s top 20 ports, propelled by sweeping modernisation and cutting-edge infrastructure developments. This transformation, marked by enhanced operational efficiency and international recognition, was highlighted by N. Sridhar, IRS, Principal Commissioner of Customs, Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA), during a Trade Meet in Hyderabad at Hotel Marigold. “Thanks to faster turnaround, automation, and real-time cargo tracking, Visakhapatnam Port now leads as the fastest among Indian ports,” Sridhar remarked.

The Trade Meet, held in collaboration with the Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI), brought together more than 200 exporters and importers. During the event, Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) showcased its operational excellence through notable key performance indicators. These included an impressive 27.5 container moves per crane hour and a significantly reduced vessel turnaround time of just 21.4 hours. Additionally, the port achieved minimal berth idle time, reflecting its capacity for efficient container vessel handling. Together, these metrics reinforce the port’s growing reputation and foster increased confidence and preference among international trade partners.

At the Hyderabad Trade Meet jointly organised with the Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI), Principal Commissioner of Customs N. Sridhar unveiled Visakhapatnam Port’s forward-looking cargo handling target of 90 million tonnes for FY 2025–26, marking an increase from 82.62 million tonnes in the previous fiscal year.

Addressing media representatives, Sridhar shared plans for a 10-lane, 15-kilometre access road linking the port directly to major highways—an infrastructure boost aimed at decongesting traffic and streamlining logistics.

R. Ravi Kumar, FTCCI President, underscored the indispensable role of sea ports in India’s trade framework, citing that 95% of exports by volume and 70% by value move through maritime channels. He emphasized how maritime trade is crucial for maintaining India’s global edge.

The Telugu states are set to gain significantly from VPT’s accelerated momentum, with projected cargo traffic growth of 3–6% annually and utilisation expected to stabilise at 55% in the medium term.