Visakhapatnam Port Logs Double-Digit Growth, Handles 91.17 MMT Cargo in FY 2025–26
In a notable boost to India’s maritime sector, the Visakhapatnam Port Authority has recorded an impressive cargo throughput of 91.17 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) in the financial year 2025–26. This marks a 10.34% year-on-year growth, up from 82.62 MMT in the previous fiscal, underscoring the port’s rising operational efficiency and expanding cargo base.
Visakhapatnam Port Logs Double-Digit Growth, Handles 91.17 MMT Cargo in FY 2025–26
In a notable boost to India’s maritime sector, the Visakhapatnam Port Authority has recorded an impressive cargo throughput of 91.17 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) in the financial year 2025–26. This marks a 10.34% year-on-year growth, up from 82.62 MMT in the previous fiscal, underscoring the port’s rising operational efficiency and expanding cargo base.
The port achieved an absolute increase of 8.55 MMT, driven by strategic diversification and improved logistics coordination. The growth reflects not just higher volumes, but also the port’s ability to adapt to evolving trade demands across bulk, break-bulk, and liquid cargo segments.
Commodity-Wise Growth Drives Momentum
A closer look at cargo composition reveals that crude oil emerged as the leading contributor, registering a significant rise of 2.45 MMT (15.1%). Meanwhile, iron ore and pellets continued their upward trajectory with a 1.61 MMT increase (13.9%), highlighting sustained demand in the metals sector.
Energy cargo also played a key role, with thermal coal witnessing a strong surge of 1.42 MMT, signaling expansion in power and industrial consumption. Additionally, industrial by-products such as BF slag and coke & coke fines recorded exceptional growth rates of 119.4% and 140.2%, respectively.
Emerging cargo streams further strengthened the overall performance. The introduction and scaling of anthracite coal traffic added fresh momentum, while commodities like alumina and chrome & nickel ore posted steady and, in some cases, sharp percentage gains.
Exports Outpace Imports Growth
On the trade front, the port demonstrated robust export performance. Exports reached 33.67 MMT, reflecting a 19.4% growth, significantly outpacing imports.
Imports stood at 57.45 MMT, registering a 5.5% increase, driven largely by crude oil and coal shipments.
This balanced yet export-driven growth indicates strengthening global trade linkages and enhanced competitiveness of Indian commodities in international markets.
Operational Efficiency and Diversification Key to Success
The broad-based growth across cargo categories highlights the port’s operational resilience and strategic foresight. By expanding its cargo basket and improving turnaround efficiency, the port has positioned itself as a key logistics hub on India’s eastern seaboard.
Industry observers note that the consistent rise in cargo volumes is indicative of increased industrial activity, stronger supply chains, and improved port infrastructure. The ability to handle diverse cargo efficiently has further enhanced the port’s attractiveness for both domestic and international trade stakeholders.
Driving India’s Maritime Ambitions
The strong annual performance underscores the growing importance of the Visakhapatnam Port Authority in supporting India’s broader economic and maritime ambitions. With continued focus on modernization, capacity expansion, and cargo diversification, the port is expected to play a pivotal role in driving regional development and boosting national trade.
As India continues to strengthen its position in global supply chains, ports like Visakhapatnam are set to become critical engines of growth, facilitating seamless movement of goods and enhancing economic momentum.
