The Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has recorded its highest ever annual cargo throughput of 90.29 million metric tonnes (mn t) as of 28 March, marking a landmark in its 92-year history. The authority reported a total of 90,298,591 t handled in the period. The figure constitutes a notable increase on past seasons and sets a new benchmark for the port.

The milestone was reached in just 362 days of the 2025–26 financial year, surpassing the previous record of 82.62 million metric tonnes set during 2024–25. The port achieved its annual target well ahead of schedule, reflecting improved operational efficiency and strategic growth.

The VPA noted that the performance reflected concerted efforts across its operational, logistics and berth management teams to raise throughput and reduce turnaround times. This outcome is likely to strengthen the port's role as a regional trade hub and to support supply chain resilience for the surrounding industrial hinterland. Authorities indicated that sustaining the momentum will depend on continued investment in infrastructure and coordinated stakeholder engagement.

The record annual throughput, achieved in the 92nd year of the port's existence, provides policy makers and private operators with a measurable indicator of capacity gains. Stakeholders will watch how the VPA translates the achievement into long term gains in cargo mix diversification, service quality and competitiveness. The port authority will also need to monitor environmental and logistical constraints to ensure sustainable growth.

Looking ahead, the authority is expected to leverage this momentum to prioritise projects that enhance hinterland connectivity and modal integration while maintaining operational discipline. Observers said translating throughput gains into sustained commercial outcomes will require ongoing collaboration between the port, shipping lines, exporters and inland transport providers. Continued transparency in reporting and measured investment decisions are likely to be central to converting the record into durable economic benefits.