MSC-Adani Vizhinjam port deal: Kerala CM says state govt approval required for share transfer

Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan Photo Credit: ANI

A day after Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ) announced that Switzerland-based Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) group will acquire a 49% stake in Adani Vizhinjam Port Private Limited (AVPPL), the concessionaire and operating company for the Vizhinjam International Seaport, the Kerala government on Wednesday made it clear that approval of the MSC-Adani share transfer by the government is required for state approval.

Responding to a question during Question Hour in the Assembly, Chief Minister VD Satheesan informed the House that Adani Ports has not yet obtained approval for the transfer of stakes. In some cases, the approval of the central government is required for the transfer of shares, he said, adding that he came to know about the transfer of shares through media reports.

According to the announcement, MSC will acquire a 49% stake in the Vizhinjam port company for $1.397 billion (about ₹13,220 crore). MSC will make the investment through its container terminal operations and investment arm, TiL. APSEZ and TiL have entered into an agreement and, according to APSEZ, the transaction is subject to the usual approvals, including regulatory approvals.

Published – 01 Jul 2026 11:34 IST