Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Eyes Agri-Export Boost with New Processing Zone.

The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP Kolkata) is set to accelerate its industrial footprint, with plans to float a tender for a dedicated agro-processing zone within the next two months. The move is a cornerstone of the port's broader strategy to leverage its vast land bank for port-led industrialization and revenue generation.

Speaking to businessline, Samrat Rahi, Deputy Chairperson of SMP Kolkata (formerly Kolkata Port Trust), confirmed that the port is ready to transition approximately 100 acres of prime land in the city and surrounding areas into specialized industrial hubs.

A Multi-Sector Industrial Strategy

While the agro-processing zone is the immediate priority, the port has identified several other sectors for development under a land-lease model. These include:

Agro-Processing: Tender expected within 60 days.

Toy Manufacturing: Strong industry interest already received.

Tea, Textiles, and Leather: Ready-to-use land parcels available for prospective players.

"For the agro-processing zone, a tender will be floated in the next two months," Rahi stated. "We have also received interests for a toy manufacturing zone. We are ready with the land available at the port for prospective industry players across these various sectors."

Unlocking Value through Land Monetization

The shift toward a land-lease model is designed to attract private investment while ensuring the port retains long-term ownership of its strategic assets. By creating dedicated zones for textiles, leather, and tea, SMP Kolkata aims to create a seamless ecosystem where manufacturing and processing units sit adjacent to major shipping channels, drastically reducing logistics costs for exporters.

The development of these zones is expected to transform the port from a traditional transit point into a vibrant industrial hub, mirroring global port-city models that drive regional economic growth.