
On Wednesday, October 2, 2024, the Vizhinjam International Seaport witnessed the arrival of yet another major container vessel—MSC Orion, signaling an exciting chapter in India’s maritime logistics. This is the third mother ship to dock at the newly operational port following limited-scale operations that began in July. The Vizhinjam port, located off the coast of Thiruvananthapuram, is gearing up to become a critical hub for international shipping, further reducing India’s reliance on transshipment through Colombo.
The Arrival of MSC Orion
The MSC Orion, built in 2020 and sailing under the flag of Madeira, arrived at Vizhinjam carrying approximately 15,000 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units)—a significant cargo capacity that highlights the port’s ability to handle large-scale operations. The vessel, owned by the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), one of the largest shipping lines in the world, made its entry after previously receiving vessels such as MSC Deila and MSC Adu V. With these consistent port calls, there are growing expectations that MSC might designate Vizhinjam as one of its hubs in the near future.
Vizhinjam: India’s New Maritime Hub?
The arrival of these massive ships is a testament to the increasing importance of Vizhinjam International Seaport in global shipping networks. The port offers strategic advantages due to its location, which provides easy access to international shipping routes, particularly between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Furthermore, with its ability to handle large container ships like the MSC Orion, Vizhinjam has the potential to serve as a critical transshipment hub for Indian cargo, reducing the country’s reliance on neighboring Colombo for re-exporting goods.
If Vizhinjam secures MSC as an anchor customer, it could significantly bolster the port’s commercial prospects. Currently, Adani Vizhinjam Port Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of Adani Ports and SEZ (APSEZ), is developing and operating the port under a 30-year concession agreement with the Kerala government. According to sources, discussions with MSC are ongoing, and although no formal agreement has been reached, a partnership could be formalized before the full-scale commissioning of the port in December 2024.
The Significance of Mother Ships
The arrival of mother ships like MSC Orion marks a pivotal development in India’s maritime landscape. These vessels can carry thousands of containers, making them critical for global trade. In the case of the MSC Orion, it arrived from Brazil, carrying 15,000 TEUs and will move an estimated 3,000 containers before heading to its next destination. Earlier, MSC Adu V had left for Cochin Port after unloading around 2,000 containers and loading 1,000 more from Vizhinjam.
The seamless handling of these vessels is crucial for the port’s reputation, as shipping companies evaluate operational efficiency before committing to long-term partnerships. For Vizhinjam, the ability to process such volumes effectively is a strong indicator that it can meet its target of handling one million TEUs in its first phase.
Opportunities in the Logistics and Shipping Industry
The growing prominence of Vizhinjam as an international shipping hub presents exciting career prospects for those interested in the logistics and shipping industry. With the rise of international trade and the increased volume of cargo movement, the demand for trained professionals in logistics, supply chain management, and shipping operations is skyrocketing. The need for efficient logistics operations, cargo handling, port management, and supply chain optimization is greater than ever, creating a range of opportunities in various roles, including:
- Logistics Managers
- Supply Chain Analysts
- Freight Coordinators
- Customs Brokers
- Warehouse Managers
- Shipping Executives
The success of Vizhinjam is also driving the demand for specialized training in logistics and supply chain management. Leading institutes are now offering industry-relevant logistics courses that cover the practical and theoretical aspects of port operations, cargo handling, and global supply chain management, preparing students to meet the challenges of a fast-evolving sector.