EXIM operations mean handling cargo being exported from or imported into the country, in addition to transshipment between international shipping services.
Exporters who have so far shipped cargo to western markets via Colombo, Singapore and Dubai will now be able to send consignments directly from Vizhinjam
With large stretches of the shoreline already taken over for port infrastructure, the delay has left the fishing community struggling with shrinking operational space and mounting livelihood losses.