The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) has issued letters of intent (LoI) to nine successful bidders and for the growth of its Special Economic Zone (SEZ). The multi-product port-based SEZ at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) covers 277 hectares and is part of the shipping ministry's Sagarmala initiative, which aims to boost exports by enabling port-led industrialization. The JNPT Deputy Chairman Unmesh Sharad Wagh handed over the letters of intent to nine bidders on Monday, according to a release from the government-owned port operator. The six companies honoured as they became operational, including Simosis International and Sarveshwar Logistics Pvt Ltd, are already operating out of the SEZ. It is an infrastructure-ready project with all regulatory approvals in place to help new investors, and the addition of the SEZ will improve the Ease of Doing Business, promote manufacturing, and directly contribute to making JNPT the Exim Trade Port of Choice. Due to increased government planned outlays, improved infrastructure facilities, and greater access to global markets, the maritime industry has seen rapid growth in recent years. According to the press release, the JNPT-SEZ aims to reduce costs and help move goods to and from ports quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively to boost Indian goods' global competitiveness. In addition, because of the SEZs proximity to the port, businesses can take advantage of the SEZs business benefits. Systematic planning, integration, and development of SEZs, as well as an efficient and interconnected transportation network, will play a critical role in reaping significant benefits for the country and ensuring the success of port-based industrialization. The land allotment for the industry, according to the release, is done through an e-tender and e-auction process under policy guidelines for Port Guidelines for Land Management. On the NIC, Central Public Procurement Portal (CPPP), a recent e-tender and e-auction was launched with the approval of the competent authority. Cineline India, Darwin Platform Logistics, Darwin Platform Shipping, Daund Sugar, ENVOPAP (Paper Plus Technologies Pvt Ltd), IG International, Maharaja Merchandise, MEIR Commodities India, and SRS Pharmaceuticals are the nine qualified bidders in JNPT SEZ, according to the tender committee's recommendation and approval by the competent authority. Image Source Also read: JNPT's container cargo traffic rose 65.38% to 454,385 TEUs in May