Sri Lanka sets ambitious goal to rival Singapore’s port capacity by 2035

The Sri Lankan government has set a bold target to elevate the nation’s port capacity to 33 million TEUs by 2035, a figure that would position it to compete with the world’s busiest transshipment hub, Singapore. 

Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation, Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku, unveiled this ambitious vision at the 8th Annual General Meeting of the Sri Lanka Association of NVOCC Agents (SLANA).

Addressing the gathering of key players in the shipping and logistics sector, the Deputy Minister affirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to developing the port sector to meet burgeoning future demands. 

“We aim to match the 33 million TEUs of the Singapore port by 2035,” he declared, signalling a new era of accelerated growth for Sri Lanka’s maritime industry.

Central to this ambitious expansion are several key infrastructure projects, including the development of the East Container Terminal (ECT), the West Container Terminal (WCT), and the new North Port. The Deputy Minister highlighted that these projects are integral to the government’s strategy to significantly enhance Colombo’s container handling capabilities.

Recent progress on these fronts is already visible. The ECT has recently seen the installation of 12 new ship-to-shore cranes and 40 automated rail-mounted gantry cranes, a major step towards its full operationalisation. The WCT, a joint venture with India’s Adani Group and local conglomerate John Keells Holdings, has also commenced its operations, adding a significant boost to the port’s current capacity.

Further outlining the government’s proactive approach, Kodithuwakku announced plans to release land owned by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority in Colombo and Trincomalee to the private sector for port-related developments. This move is expected to attract further investment and foster a vibrant ecosystem of maritime services.

The Deputy Minister also shared that a government investment of approximately Rs. 500 million has been made for a feasibility study and the construction of new warehouses on Bloemendhal Road and a container yard in Peliyagoda. These facilities are aimed at alleviating port congestion and streamlining logistics. 

“For this, maritime industry experts’ views and advice will be sought by the government,” he assured, emphasising a collaborative approach to development.

Acknowledging the concerns of the industry, the Minister also pledged to address the long-standing issue of Terminal Handling Charges (THC), a matter of contention for NVOCC agents and shippers. His assurance to look into the current THC structure was met with appreciation from the industry representatives present. (NF)