Colombo Port achieves record container handling in 2025

Colombo, January 2 (Daily Mirror) - The Colombo Port recorded the highest container throughput in its history in 2025, handling a total of 829,000 containers, marking a significant milestone for Sri Lanka’s maritime sector.

This record performance reflects a 6% increase compared to 2024, when the port handled 770,000 containers. The achievement was attributed to the combined efforts of all container terminals operating at the Colombo Port, including the Sri Lanka Ports Authority–owned Jaya Container Terminal (JCT) and Eastern Container Terminal (ECT), the South Asia Gateway Terminals (SAGT) operated by a Chinese company, and the Colombo International Container Terminal (CICT) operated by India’s Adani Group.

In recognition of this achievement, a special ceremony was held at the Eastern Container Terminal under the patronage of Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Anura Karunathilaka. Deputy Minister Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku, Secretary to the Ministry W.W.S. Mangala, senior management officials of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority, and heads of container terminals also attended the event.

Looking ahead, the Colombo Port has outlined plans to further strengthen its position as a key regional hub in 2026 by enhancing transshipment operations and logistics facilities. With the completion of construction work at the Eastern Container Terminal and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority–owned Western Container Terminal (WCT) expected in 2026, the port’s container handling capacity is set to increase substantially.

Port officials said this expansion is expected to provide a major boost to Sri Lanka’s economic growth in 2026. Several leading global shipping lines have already expressed appreciation for the efficiency and performance of the Colombo Port, with additional shipping companies expected to commence operations in the near future.

Meanwhile, Minister Karunathilaka recently met with the management of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and heads of foreign-operated container terminals to discuss plans for 2026. During the meeting, he highlighted the significant financial contribution made to the national economy through the record container handling in 2025 and extended the government’s appreciation to all management and staff for their dedication. The Minister also assured full ministerial support to ensure continued growth and success in the coming year.