Visakhapatnam Strengthens Its Position as a Hub for Coastal Tourism and Trade

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• June 11, 2025
• Andhra Pradesh, Business Trends
• Tourism, trade
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The Jewel of the East Coast: Visakhapatnam Leads in Maritime Development and Tourism

Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh: Visakhapatnam, popularly known as Vizag, is solidifying its reputation as a key hub for both coastal tourism and international trade. With its pristine beaches, historical landmarks, and robust port infrastructure, the city is emerging as a dynamic destination for travelers and a critical node for maritime commerce.

Recent initiatives by the Andhra Pradesh government, in collaboration with the Visakhapatnam Port Trust and the Ministry of Tourism, are driving growth across both sectors, ensuring sustainable development and global recognition.

Tourism Boom: A Coastal Paradise

Revamping Tourist Attractions
Visakhapatnam has witnessed a surge in tourist activity, thanks to new investments in infrastructure and the promotion of its natural and cultural attractions. Iconic spots like RK Beach, Kailasagiri Hill Park, and the INS Kursura Submarine Museum have been upgraded with better amenities and eco-friendly initiatives, drawing both domestic and international visitors.

The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) has also introduced new coastal cruises, heritage walks, and adventure sports such as scuba diving and parasailing, boosting the city’s appeal as a destination for both relaxation and thrill-seekers.

International Cruise Tourism
Visakhapatnam has also stepped up as a hub for international cruise tourism. According to the Visakhapatnam Port Authority, over 10 luxury cruise liners have docked at the port in 2025, bringing thousands of international tourists to the city. This marks a 40% increase in cruise arrivals compared to the previous year, contributing significantly to the local economy.

Maritime Trade: A Port That Powers Growth

Visakhapatnam Port: A Strategic Asset
On the trade front, Visakhapatnam continues to strengthen its position as one of India’s largest and busiest ports. Handling over 70 million tons of cargo annually, the port plays a vital role in the nation’s trade network, facilitating exports and imports across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.

Recent upgrades, including the modernization of berths and the integration of advanced cargo-handling technologies, have increased the port’s efficiency by 30%. The port is now equipped to handle larger vessels, boosting its capacity to support India’s growing trade volumes.

Blue Economy Initiatives
The city is also aligning with India’s Blue Economy vision, focusing on sustainable maritime practices. Projects like deep-sea fishing hubs and the promotion of eco-friendly aquaculture are ensuring that economic growth goes hand in hand with environmental preservation.

Economic and Social Impact

Tourism Revenue
The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department reports that coastal tourism in Visakhapatnam contributed over ₹2,500 crore to the state’s economy in 2025, with visitor numbers exceeding 1.5 million. New initiatives like themed resorts, eco-tourism zones, and heritage projects are expected to further elevate these figures.

Employment Growth
The dual growth in tourism and trade has created thousands of jobs in the hospitality, logistics, and maritime sectors. As per official estimates, over 25,000 new jobs have been generated in Visakhapatnam in the past year alone, improving the livelihoods of local communities.

Visakhapatnam’s Global Aspirations

As Andhra Pradesh focuses on becoming a maritime and tourism powerhouse, Visakhapatnam is leading the way with its unique blend of natural beauty and economic dynamism. The city’s strategic location, combined with sustained investments in infrastructure and innovation, ensures that it remains a key player on both the national and global stage.

With its sights set firmly on the future, Visakhapatnam is not just a gateway to Andhra Pradesh but a beacon of India’s growth in the 21st century.