On April 22, 2025, a high-level delegation from Nepal visited the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) to strengthen bilateral trade ties and explore future cooperation in logistics and maritime commerce. The five-member team was led by Dr. Govind Prasad Sharma, Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, Government of Nepal.

The visit comes as part of Nepal’s strategic initiative to diversify its trade routes and improve supply chain efficiency. The delegation held discussions with VPA officials, focusing on the operational capabilities of the port, ongoing infrastructure upgrades, and how the port can serve as a vital trade gateway for Nepal’s exports and imports.

During their visit, the delegation toured key facilities including container handling terminals, warehousing zones, and customs areas. VPA officials presented insights into the port’s role as a major maritime hub on India’s eastern coast, highlighting its cargo handling capacity, rail-road connectivity, and integration with inland trade routes.

Dr. Sharma expressed optimism about leveraging Visakhapatnam Port as an alternative to traditional routes via Kolkata, citing shorter transit times and enhanced logistical efficiency. He also discussed the potential to export Nepalese agricultural produce, herbs, and manufactured goods through Visakhapatnam, fostering economic growth for both nations.

The visit underscores growing Indo-Nepal relations in the maritime and trade sectors, with both sides agreeing to further examine collaborative mechanisms, including the possibility of establishing dedicated cargo corridors or logistic partnerships through public-private initiatives.

This development is a positive step towards enhancing regional economic integration and aligns with India’s Act East policy to facilitate cross-border trade with its neighboring countries.