Shares of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone are likely to be in focus after the company reported robust operational performance in December 2025, with total cargo handling reaching 41.90 million metric tonnes (MMT), representing a solid 9% year-over-year growth. The company's latest business update reveals strong performance driven by exceptional container segment growth, reinforcing its position as a leading port operator in India's maritime logistics sector.

December 2025 Operational Highlights

The port operator achieved significant operational milestones during December 2025, with growth primarily driven by containers, which recorded an impressive 18% year-over-year increase during the month. The performance showcases the company's ability to capitalize on India's growing trade volumes and container traffic.

Year-to-Date Performance Demonstrates Consistent Growth

For the year-to-date period ending December 2025, the company handled a cumulative 367.30 MMT of cargo, marking an 11% rise over the corresponding period last year. The container segment continued to be the primary growth driver, contributing significantly with a robust 21% year-over-year expansion, demonstrating sustained operational excellence across the portfolio.

Logistics Operations Show Mixed Results

On the logistics front, rail volumes in December 2025 stood at 59,037 TEUs, remaining unchanged compared with the previous year, while GPWIS volumes declined 7% year-over-year to 1.80 MMT. However, the year-to-date rail logistics performance showed positive momentum with 528,872 TEUs, reflecting an 11% year-over-year growth, while GPWIS volumes remained flat at 16.10 MMT for the period.

Strong Stock Performance and Market Focus

Shares of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone are expected to be in focus following the positive operational update. Over the past one year, the stock has delivered a strong gain of 24.46%, reflecting sustained investor interest and significantly outperforming broader market indices.

The stock closed in the green on Monday, up by a marginal 0.23% at ₹1,492.60 on the BSE. While the stock has shown some near-term pressure with a 1.09% decline over the last month, the overall performance trajectory remains positive with healthy returns across longer time frames, supported by the company's consistent operational growth and strong market position in India's port infrastructure sector.

Mumbai Airport has issued an official clarification addressing widespread industry concerns about cargo operations during planned infrastructure works. The airport operator has denied reports of a complete cargo shutdown, stating that cargo movement at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) will continue during airside infrastructure development between August 2026 and May 2027.

Official Airport Response

In a detailed statement, the airport operator directly addressed industry concerns: "Reports suggesting a closure of cargo operations from August 2026 to May 2027 at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), Mumbai, are incorrect."

The operator clarified that while dedicated freighter operations will be suspended, overall cargo movement will continue through alternative arrangements. The infrastructure works will include runway recarpeting, construction of a new taxiway, and reconstruction of Apron G, which has reached the end of its operational life.

Cargo Operations Continuity Plan

The airport operator emphasized that cargo operations will not cease entirely during the construction period. According to the statement, "Only dedicated cargo freighter operations will be suspended during this period, while overall cargo movement continues seamlessly, with approximately 65% of volumes handled through belly cargo on passenger flights."

Navi Mumbai Airport Solution

Adani Airports, as operator of both CSMIA and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), has positioned NMIA as the solution for freighter operations during the construction phase. The operator stated it "remains in close engagement with freighter operators to ensure that no freighter capacity moves out of the Mumbai region."

Industry Concerns and Market Impact

Mumbai remains one of India's top two air cargo gateways, processing significant volumes across multiple sectors. The airport serves as a crucial hub for exporters and importers across Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, and Goa.

The Air Cargo Agents Association of India (ACAAI) had previously expressed deep concern over the planned suspension, warning that dismantling cargo infrastructure without alternate arrangements could severely disrupt trade operations. The association cautioned that prolonged freighter operation halts could lead to reduced uplift capacity, higher freight rates, and increased logistics costs.

Long-term Infrastructure Vision

The airport operator emphasized that infrastructure upgrades are essential for meeting long-term cargo capacity requirements while ensuring safety and operational efficiency. Recent developments include the commissioning of Taxiway M, demonstrating ongoing commitment to infrastructure enhancement.

Adani Airports has invited stakeholders to engage directly: "Adani Airports invites all stakeholders with concerns to reach out and visit our facilities to see firsthand the value these enhancements bring to trade." The operator positioned the construction works as necessary modernization to support India's growing air cargo demands while maintaining operational continuity through strategic planning.