India’s Top 10 Busiest Seaports by Cargo Tonnage in 2025

India’s maritime sector achieved an important milestone in the financial year 2024-25. The country’s major ports handled a total of 855 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo, a 4.3% increase from the previous year’s 819 MMT. This reflects ongoing growth and the crucial role these ports play in supporting India’s economy and global trade.

Growth of India’s Maritime Sector

Over the past decade, India’s major ports have experienced sustained growth driven by rising trade, improved infrastructure, and efficient logistics. In 2025, the top five ports contributed nearly 63% of all cargo handled, indicating their dominance and significance.

Table: Top 10 Busiest Major Ports in India (June 2025)

Below is a comprehensive table summarizing the cargo volumes handled by the top 10 major ports in June 2025:

MMT = Million Metric Tonnes; percentages approx.

Detailed Overview of Major Ports

Paradip Port Authority (PPA) – Odisha

Paradip Port is India’s top cargo handler with 13.14 MMT. Its east-coast location makes it vital for raw materials like coal and iron ore, supporting manufacturing and energy industries.

Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), Kandla – Gujarat

Kandla Port processed 12.03 MMT of cargo, known for handling bulk and liquid cargo. It is a critical gateway for exports from north-western India.

Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), Navi Mumbai – Maharashtra

In June 2025, JNPA handled 7.56 MMT. As India’s largest container port, it connects Indian goods to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) – Andhra Pradesh

Visakhapatnam Port managed 7.33 MMT. It services local industries such as steel, fertilizers, and seafood, supporting both bulk and container cargo.

Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP Kolkata) – West Bengal

Kolkata Port handled 5.93 MMT. It serves eastern India, trading in dry bulk, chemicals, and cereals, and is unique for its inland river location.

Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) – Maharashtra

Mumbai Port processed 5.68 MMT, handling bulk cargo and petroleum products for urban and industrial Maharashtra.

Chennai Port Authority (ChPA) – Tamil Nadu

Chennai Port handled 5.08 MMT, specializing in automobiles and machinery. It’s crucial for Southern India’s exports and imports.

Kamarajar Port Limited (KAM), Ennore – Tamil Nadu

Kamarajar (Ennore) Port moved 4.41 MMT, focusing on bulk cargo including coal and iron ore, vital for regional heavy industries.

V. O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOC), Thoothukudi – Tamil Nadu

VOC Port handled 3.57 MMT. It’s important for mineral and fertilizer exports from southern Tamil Nadu.

Cochin Port Authority (CPA), Kochi – Kerala

Cochin Port managed 3.4 MMT. It is Kerala’s maritime gateway, known for its container terminal and seafood exports.

Regional Highlights and Trends

• Tamil Nadu stands out with three major ports in the top ten, reflecting a robust industrial and export base.
• All listed ports saw year-on-year growth, demonstrating infrastructure improvement and increasing demand.
• Major ports are crucial for manufacturers, farmers, and exporters, helping India connect to global supply chains.

Keywords to Remember

• Cargo Tonnage
• Major Ports
• Growth Rate
• Container Port
• Bulk Cargo
• Maritime Sector
• Export & Import
• Port Authority