The V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority marked a significant milestone in regional maritime connectivity with the arrival of the mainline shipping vessel M.V. Nawata Bhum at the Dakshin Bharat Gateway Terminal (DBGT) on 18 October 2026.

Operated by Regional Container Line (RCL), this Singapore-flagged vessel establishes a direct link between South India, South China, and Vietnam. The route reduces transit times to just 12 days from Haiphong and 13 days from Qinzhou.

This enhanced maritime service significantly expands international market access by offering exceptionally fast transit times. Cargo now reaches Tuticorin in just 13 days from Qinzhou and 12 days from Haiphong, drastically accelerating regional trade loops.

By introducing additional transshipment options through Kattupalli, the service provides businesses with greater logistical flexibility and robust connectivity. These strategic routes streamline supply chains for key regional sectors, directly boosting import-export (EXIM) trade.

The increased efficiency unlocks greater trade opportunities for high-growth sectors, particularly solar panels, electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing, and electronics. Ultimately, this upgraded network empowers local allied industries to seamlessly integrate into global value chains, strengthening the region's position as a premier manufacturing and trading hub.

With 4.42 lakh TEUs of container traffic handled up to September in FY 2026–27, registering 3.18% growth, VOC Port continues to strengthen its role as a key maritime gateway on India’s east coast.