Colombo’s first fully automated terminal opens

• CWIT brings US $ 800mn boost to South Asia’s trade future 

• CWIT is operated by Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd, John Keells Holdings PLC and Sri Lanka Ports Authority, under a 35-year BOT agreement
• Features a 1,400-metre quay length and 20-metre depth, enabling terminal to handle approximately 3.2mn TEUs annually

Not only does this terminal represent the future of trade in the Indian Ocean but its opening is also a proud moment for Sri Lanka, placing it firmly on the global maritime map
- Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani

“Together with the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and Adani Group, we will elevate Colombo’s status as a leading transshipment hub. We are confident that the project will enhance global trade and connectivity in the region”
- John Keells Group Chairperson Krishan Balendra

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd, India’s largest integrated transport utility, yesterday announced the commencement of operations at Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT), located at the Port of Colombo.

Developed under a landmark public-private partnership, CWIT is operated by a consortium comprising India’s largest port operator Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd, leading Sri Lankan conglomerate John Keells Holdings PLC and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority, under a 35-year build, operate and transfer (BOT) agreement.

The CWIT project represents a significant investment of US $ 800 million and features a 1,400-metre quay length and 20-metre depth, enabling the terminal to handle approximately 3.2 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) annually. 

“The commencement of operations at CWIT marks a momentous milestone in regional cooperation between India and Sri Lanka,” Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani said in a joint statement.

“Not only does this terminal represent the future of trade in the Indian Ocean but its opening is also a proud moment for Sri Lanka, placing it firmly on the global maritime map,” he said. 

The CWIT project is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs locally and unlock immense economic value for the island nation. 

“It also stands as a shining example of the deep-rooted friendship and growing strategic ties between the two neighbours and of what can be achieved through visionary public-private partnerships. Delivering this world-class facility in record time also reflects Adani Group’s proven ability to efficiently execute large-scale critical infrastructure projects anywhere in the world,” Adani said.

Reflecting similar sentiments, John Keells Group Chairperson Krishan Balendra pointed out that the project strengthens Sri Lanka’s position as a regional maritime hub.” 

The project is one of John Keells Group’s largest investments and is among the most significant private sector investments in Sri Lanka. 

“Together with the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and Adani Group, we will elevate Colombo’s status as a leading transshipment hub. We are confident that the project will enhance global trade and connectivity in the region,” said Balendra.

The project is the first deep-water terminal in Colombo to be fully automated, designed to enhance cargo handling capabilities, improve vessel turnaround times and elevate the port’s status as a key transshipment hub in South Asia.

Construction began in early 2022 and has since achieved rapid progress. With the installation of cutting-edge infrastructure now nearing completion, CWIT is poised to set new benchmarks in operational efficiency and reliability in regional maritime logistics.