Port of Colombo

The Port of Colombo, primarily a container port, recorded the handling of approximately 5.1 million TEUs (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units) of containerized cargo in 2015.

The original port, spanning 184 hectares, was expanded in 2008 with the development of the South Harbour area covering 285 hectares. This expansion aimed to accommodate deep water berths and accommodate the latest generation of mainline vessels. The harbour features a two-way channel with an initial depth of 20m and a width of 570m.

Terminal Operations at Port of Colombo

The South Harbour development included plans for three terminals, each with a capacity of 2.4 million TEUs. The first terminal, operated on a build operate-transfer (BOT) basis, is managed by Colombo International Container Terminals Limited, a joint venture involving China Merchants Holding (International) Co. Ltd and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA).

Terminal operating companies at the Port of Colombo include Sri Lanka Ports Authority, South Asian Gateway Terminal (Pvt) Ltd, and Colombo International Container Terminal (Pvt) Ltd. These entities provide essential facilities such as infrastructure for loading/unloading, navigation, storage, customs services, security by the Sri Lanka Navy, and stevedoring services by Premier Shipping (Pvt) Ltd.

Cargo Handling and Operations

The port handles Multi Country Consolidation (MCC) cargo, involving the transshipment of cargo to multiple destinations. It facilitates Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) cargo delivery operations, offering electronic cargo documentation for FCL cargo and covered storage for LCL cargo. Additionally, the port’s warehouses, including CFS VI, are available for external parties to conduct cargo operations, ensuring 24/7 security until cargo delivery is complete.

In recent weeks, the Port of Colombo has experienced increased container volumes, attributed to vessels avoiding tensions in the southern Red Sea due to attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels. This development underscores the port’s strategic importance as a convenient transit point, especially in the context of disruptions in major shipping routes.

Additional Details for Port of Colombo

• Total area: 1,200 acres
• Container Capacity: 7 million TEUs