First import container arrives at Vizhinjam - The HinduPublished - October 31, 2026 10:36 pm IST - THIRUVANANTHAPURAMThe ship that carrying the first import consignment to Vizhinjam International Seaport called at the port on Saturday. | Photo Credit: Special ArrangementThe vessel carrying the first import consignment to Vizhinjam since full-scale export-import (EXIM) cargo operations commenced at Vizhinjam International Seaport in August called at the port here on Saturday, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the State’s maritime trade.The first import container to Vizhinjam was booked from Ningbo in China and arrived aboard the vessel MSC Sabrina III. It was booked by BP2G Logistics and Ship Chandlers Private Limited, a Thiruvananthapuram-based start-up, on behalf of the city’s business enterprise, M/s Alteir Group.The consignment comprises a full container load (FCL) of engineered building boards used in the construction sector as an alternative to conventional plywood.With import operations now under way at Vizhinjam, containers can be unloaded, cleared and transported directly to markets across Keralam. This will reduce local entrepreneurs’ dependence on distant ports, helping them cut transportation costs and delivery times. The revenue generated through cargo handling and logistics activities will also remain within the State.The development is expected to create employment opportunities for customs brokers, freight forwarders, transport operators, warehouse operators and port workers, while strengthening Keralam’s position as a maritime trade destination, authorities said.Published - October 31, 2026 10:36 pm ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }