KOCHI: The Cochin Port Trust is beckoning exporters from Erode zone by initiating a slew of measures and is also opening up for investments. A clear indication on this regard was given by G. Senthilvel, chairman (i/c) Cochin Port, while addressing an interactive session with exporters and importers organised by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Erode Zone on Saturday at Erode.
The objective of the interaction was to convey to the traders about various measures taken by Cochin Port Trust to handle cargo from North West Tamil Nadu in a cost-effective and efficient manner for the benefit of trade and development. The investment opportunities at Cochin Port were also discussed.
Addressing the session, Mr Senthilvel said that the Port has direct sailing to Europe, the Mediterranean and the Far East in addition to the regular sailings to the Gulf and Colombo. “Kochi provides a savings of 7 days in transit time and savings of $100 to $200 in overall supply chain cost for European bound exports.
The Walayar Check post has now introduced a green channel for vehicle/sales tax/ excise for EXIM cargo and this has resulted in quick clearance of both Customs/Excise sealed and self-sealed containers at the check post,” Mr Senthilvel said.
The Container Corporation of India (CONCOR) has also started regular service on every Saturday from Coimbatore to Cochin Port to carry export containers and on every Thursday from Cochin to Coimbatore to transport import containers. “The CONCOR is carrying empty containers from Cochin to Coimbatore free of cost. This provision is making the overall cost much cheaper than before,” Mr Senthilvel said.
Port officials said that the industrialists at Erode especially those in the food processing industry were enthusiastic about supplies to cruise vessels and other vessels calling at the Cochin Port. The businessmen in the garment and cotton industry have decided to set up stalls during the visit of premium cruise vessels at Cochin.
