Adani Ports aims to scale up marine, logistics, Agri-logistics arms: CEO

By Admin

05 May, 2025

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), India’s largest private port operator, is setting its sights on scaling up its operations across marine, logistics, and agri-logistics sectors. In a recent interview with PTI, Karan Adani, the Managing Director of APSEZ, shared an expansive vision for growth that aligns with the group’s long-term strategic goals and India’s ambitions to become a global trade powerhouse.

Focus on Three Growth Verticals

Karan Adani emphasized that APSEZ is investing heavily in three major verticals: marine, logistics, and agri-logistics. Already a dominant player in the marine segment, APSEZ plans to enhance its capabilities both within India and internationally. On the logistics front, the group aims to replicate its successful port models by building large, multi-modal logistics parks that drive volume and efficiency. These parks will include silos and storage facilities to bolster agri-logistics infrastructure, a sector poised for high growth as India modernizes its agricultural supply chain.

Transforming Vizhinjam into a Transshipment Powerhouse

A major highlight in APSEZ’s expansion roadmap is the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala. Recently commissioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 2 at an initial cost of ₹8,867 crore, the port is undergoing a transformative second phase with an investment of ₹13,000 crore. By 2028, this deep-water port is expected to boost its cargo handling capacity from 1.2 million TEUs to nearly 5 million TEUs.

What sets Vizhinjam apart is its 100% transshipment focus—unlike other Indian ports that primarily handle domestic and import-export cargo. Presently, around 75% of India's transshipment cargo is routed through foreign ports like Singapore, Colombo, Salalah, and Dubai, leading to a revenue loss of $200–220 million annually. Vizhinjam aims to reclaim this lost value by offering a competitive, India-based alternative.

Competing Globally on Tariffs and Efficiency

Karan Adani acknowledged the stiff competition from established ports such as Colombo and Singapore, stating that success for Vizhinjam will depend on competing across all fronts tariff structures, operational efficiency, and overall productivity. The goal is not only to match global standards but to surpass them, providing shippers with a viable, efficient, and cost-effective transshipment hub within India.

Exploring Global Opportunities

Beyond domestic growth, APSEZ is also eyeing international markets, particularly in Southeast Asia and East Africa. The company is continuously evaluating opportunities in high-growth countries—especially those with historical trade ties to India that have seen shifts in trading routes over time. These efforts reflect APSEZ’s ambition to become a key global logistics player.

Strategic Projects: India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)

Karan Adani also highlighted the strategic importance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), which will create a seamless transportation link across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Once operational, IMEC is expected to significantly enhance supply chain resilience and reduce shipping costs for Indian exporters and importers, further boosting India’s trade competitiveness.

Weathering Global Trade Challenges

In the face of global tariff wars and shifting US trade policies, Adani remains optimistic. “We are a proxy to what the country’s growth is going to be,” he said. He expressed confidence in India’s continued economic expansion and downplayed concerns about major disruptions from international trade tensions.

A Vision Driven by Commitment

Karan Adani, who took over as Managing Director of APSEZ in January 2024, is deeply invested in realizing this ambitious vision. At just 38, he brings a relentless work ethic to the role, reportedly working 16–17 hours a day—a dedication matched by his wife, who also works long hours. Their joint commitment reflects the broader drive within the Adani Group to transform India's infrastructure landscape.

About APSEZ

APSEZ, the flagship entity of the globally diversified Adani Group, is India’s largest port developer and operator. With 7 strategically located ports and terminals on the west coast and 8 on the east coast, the company plays a pivotal role in shaping India’s maritime and logistics ecosystem. As it looks ahead, APSEZ is not only expanding capacity but also reshaping the future of trade, connectivity, and logistics across India and beyond.