HIP clocks record container move as MSC call pushes throughput to new high

Hambantota International Port (HIP) posted its highest single-vessel container throughput to date, underscoring a steady build-up in volumes as the port positions itself as an alternative transhipment hub along key East–West trade lanes.

The port handled 13,260 TEUs from the MSC Marie Leslie during a four-day call from April 11 to 15, translating into 7,968 container moves, marking a new operational high for the facility. The milestone surpasses recent records set just weeks earlier, including 12,957 TEUs on MSC Ilenia and 11,369 TEUs on MSC Ruby in March, pointing to a clear upward trajectory in container activity at the port.

Port officials said the latest performance reflects growing operational depth as vessel calls scale up in size and complexity.

“This achievement reflects the coordination, discipline and capability of our teams across all functions,” Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG) Chief Operating Officer Tommy Yang said, adding that the port remains focused on delivering “safe, efficient and reliable services” as volumes continue to rise.

The operation drew on multiple internal units, including operations, engineering, safety and navigation, alongside external partners, to sustain productivity levels under high-volume conditions.

Strategically located just 10 nautical miles off the main East–West shipping route, HIP has been incrementally strengthening its container handling capacity, tapping into evolving trade flows and congestion pressures across traditional regional hubs. The latest call reinforces the port’s ability to handle larger throughput volumes and signals a gradual shift in its role, from a secondary facility to a more active node within the regional logistics network.