Colombo Port sees 9.6% growth August.

The Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) has responded to recent media reports suggesting a decline in transshipment volumes at the Port of Colombo, which attributed the decrease to regional port developments in India. While acknowledging the media’s role in encouraging public debate, the SLPA clarifies that these reports misinterpret the dynamics of global supply chains and port operations.

The notion of regional ports as competitors overlooks the collaborative nature of the maritime industry. The SLPA and all terminal operators at Colombo Port recognize the growth of nearby ports as an opportunity for collective development to meet market demands. The temporary fluctuation in transshipment volumes should be understood as part of the global supply-demand adjustments that affect ports worldwide.

In 2024, the Port of Colombo has demonstrated strong growth in container handling. The SLPA recorded a 16% increase, handling 1,541,034 TEUs compared to 1,327,925 TEUs the previous year. Similarly, the South Asia Gateway Terminal (SAGT) saw a 10.4% growth, while the Colombo International Container Terminals (CICT) experienced a 5.0% increase in TEU handling. Overall, the port achieved a 9.6% growth, processing 5,023,632 TEUs in 2024. This growth trend affirms Colombo Port’s crucial role in regional and global trade, highlighting its operational strength and resilience amid global recovery.