Tamil Nadu is set to introduce duty-free retail facilities at the international passenger terminal at THE Nagapattinam Port, marking a major upgrade to strengthen maritime passenger services between India and Sri Lanka.

The initiative aims to bring the port’s passenger experience closer to international airport and maritime terminal standards as ferry traffic on the India–Sri Lanka route continues to grow.

Developed by the Tamil Nadu Maritime Board (TNMB), the terminal serves the passenger ferry connection between Nagapattinam and Kankesanthurai. Since operations began in August 2024, the service has become an important travel corridor for tourists, pilgrims, business travelers and members of the Indian and Sri Lankan diaspora. Authorities said the route has already transported more than 25,000 passengers, reflecting increasing demand for cross-border maritime connectivity.

The proposed duty-free outlets will allow eligible international travelers to purchase selected goods exempt from applicable customs duties and taxes, in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Indian government.

Officials noted that growing passenger volumes have created opportunities to introduce premium retail experiences and value-added services within the terminal. The development and operation of the duty-free retail facilities will be handled by a private operator under an outsourcing model.

Implementation is expected to begin in July, with the stores targeted to become operational within the next six months. The move is expected to further improve passenger convenience while supporting tourism and maritime trade links between India and Sri Lanka.

– Agencies