VOC Port Handles First Clinker Shipment Under Ambuja Cement Coastal MoU

The shipment marks the beginning of operational activities under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Ambuja Cement Limited, Gujarat, on 19 November 2025, aimed at facilitating the coastal movement of 2,50,000 metric tonnes of clinker annually.

The V.O. Chidambaram Port (VOC Port), one of India’s premier gateways for maritime trade, has achieved a significant milestone with the arrival of its first clinker consignment under the Minimum Guaranteed Tonnage (MGT)–based Incentive Scheme. The shipment marks the beginning of operational activities under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Ambuja Cement Limited, Gujarat, on 19 November 2025, aimed at facilitating the coastal movement of 2,50,000 metric tonnes of clinker annually.

First Vessel Under MoU Berths at VOC Port

On 24 November 2025, the vessel MV Lima Trader berthed at the port’s North Cargo Berth–II (NCB-II), carrying a substantial 56,440 metric tonnes of coastal clinker from Sanghi Port, Gujarat. This consignment is the first to be transported as part of the MoU’s commitment to promoting long-distance coastal logistics for bulk cargo.

The vessel was received by M/s Seaport Shipping acting as the ship agent, while M/s Seaport Logistics is managing the stevedoring operations. Following unloading, the clinker will be transported by road to Ambuja Cement’s grinding unit in Mela Arasadi, Tuticorin, situated approximately 24 kilometres from the Port. Here, the material will undergo further processing into cement for regional distribution.

A Boost for Coastal Shipping and Sustainable Logistics

Chairperson of VOC Port Authority, Shri Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, welcomed the landmark shipment and emphasised its importance in advancing the Government of India’s broader vision to increase coastal shipping as a green, cost-effective alternative to conventional land-based transport.

He noted that coastal movement of clinker significantly reduces transportation costs, fuel consumption and carbon emissions, making it an environmentally responsible logistics solution. The MoU with Ambuja Cement serves as a template for future partnerships that encourage industries to shift bulk cargo movements to coastal routes.

Strengthening Industrial Logistics and Port Competitiveness

Purohit highlighted that several more clinker shipments are scheduled to arrive under this agreement in the coming months. Regular vessel calls will not only enhance cargo throughput at VOC Port but also reinforce long-term collaboration with leading industry players like Ambuja Cement.

The steady arrival of clinker vessels is expected to:

• Improve port utilisation and productivity

• Support stable cargo volumes for the cement and construction sectors

• Promote Tuticorin’s position as a strategic distribution hub

• Create local employment opportunities through allied logistics services

The Port Authority has also indicated plans to streamline its logistics operations to ensure faster turnaround times, improved evacuation systems and enhanced handling facilities for bulk commodities.

Aligning with National Maritime Vision

The coastal shipping incentive scheme, under which this MoU operates, aligns with multiple central government initiatives, including:

• Maritime India Vision (MIV) 2030

• Sagarmala Programme

• National goals for reducing logistics costs and promoting multimodal transport

By supporting the movement of raw materials like clinker through sea routes, VOC Port significantly contributes to achieving these goals and strengthening India’s maritime economy.

A Positive Start to a Long-Term Partnership

The Port Authority’s press release noted that this first consignment demonstrates a strong start to the cooperation between V.O. Chidambaram Port and Ambuja Cement. Both organisations are expected to work closely to optimise vessel scheduling, cargo handling efficiency and supply chain planning to maximise the benefits of coastal trade.

With multiple clinker vessels anticipated under the yearly MGT commitment, the partnership reinforces confidence in VOC Port as a reliable, strategically located and industry-friendly maritime hub for bulk commodities.