Andhra Builds Logistic Gateway to Global Trade

Andhra Pradesh is preparing to transform its coastline into a powerful trade corridor, positioning itself as the East Coast’s primary maritime logistics gateway. With a coastline stretching over 1,050 kilometers, the state is leveraging its strategic location to connect inland economies with global shipping routes.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu recently outlined a comprehensive plan to develop world-class infrastructure across the state’s ports. The vision includes expanding existing facilities, constructing new ports every 50 kilometers, and integrating fishing harbours to support coastal communities.

Currently, Andhra Pradesh ranks second in sea cargo handling. The state’s ports serve not only its own industries but also facilitate freight movement for Telangana, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and parts of Karnataka. This interconnectivity is expected to grow as dry ports and inland waterways are developed to link hinterland regions with the coast.

Visakhapatnam, already a major port city, is set to become the nerve center of this transformation. Plans are underway to establish a Logistics University and a Civil Aviation University to build skilled manpower and support innovation in the sector.

The government is also focusing on reducing logistics costs, which currently stand at 13% in India. By improving rail, road, and air connectivity to ports, and by reviving inland water transport routes like the Buckingham Canal, Andhra aims to bring down costs and increase efficiency.

Shipbuilding, container repair, and recycling units are being planned at Dugarajapatnam and Machilipatnam. These facilities will not only support commercial shipping but also provide maintenance for defense vessels.

Industry leaders and policymakers gathered at the East Coast Maritime Logistics Summit in Visakhapatnam to discuss the roadmap. A 20-member advisory body is being formed to guide the state’s logistics strategy and ensure alignment with global standards.

The initiative is expected to boost Andhra Pradesh’s contribution to the Gross State Domestic Product from 1% to 3%, creating thousands of jobs and attracting investment across sectors.

Digital platforms for cargo tracking, smart warehousing, and real-time logistics management are also part of the blueprint. These technologies will help streamline operations and improve transparency across the supply chain.

The state’s ambition is not limited to infrastructure. It aims to become a model for sustainable and inclusive growth, balancing industrial expansion with environmental stewardship and community development.

With six operational ports and four more under construction, Andhra Pradesh is well on its way to becoming the anchor of East Coast trade. The ripple effects of this transformation will be felt across India’s economy, especially in landlocked states seeking efficient access to global markets.

As Andhra builds its maritime future, it is also shaping a new identity—one that blends tradition with technology, and local strength with global reach.

This gateway is not just about ships and cargo. It’s about opportunity, connection, and a bold vision for tomorrow.