Vizhinjam Port in Kerala has been officially notified as a customs port for its seaward wharf, allowing mid-sized vessels and smaller cruise ships from foreign countries to dock and operate. The move enables ships with about a six-metre draft to handle import and export cargo directly at the port, including unloading, storage, stuffing and destuffing within designated customs areas under the Customs Act.
Earlier, only the leeward wharf had customs clearance. With both wharfs now notified, cargo movement using medium and small vessels is expected to become easier, especially for ships from nearby countries such as the Maldives. Both wharfs are 80 metres long. The decision is seen as a boost for coastal cargo operations and smaller ports across Kerala, including Kollam.