The Port of Colombo is facing mounting congestion as rapidly rising container volumes strain yard capacity and terminal operations. Shipping lines are reporting vessel berthing delays of two to three days, while overcrowded container yards have slowed the transfer of containers between terminals.
Container throughput at Colombo increased from 636,084 TEUs in February to 761,096 TEUs in April 2026, reflecting a sharp rise in cargo volumes driven largely by increased transshipment activity and regional shipping disruptions. During the first four months of 2026, the port handled more than 2.9 million TEUs, a 13.9% increase compared to the same period last year.
With over 80% of Colombo’s throughput consisting of transshipment cargo, the congestion is raising concerns among shipping lines over schedule reliability and operational costs. In response, authorities are accelerating capacity expansion projects, including developments at the East and West Container Terminals, to accommodate growing demand and reduce pressure on existing facilities.
Source: Journal of Commerce
Container throughput at Colombo increased from 636,084 TEUs in February to 761,096 TEUs in April 2026, reflecting a sharp rise in cargo volumes driven largely by increased transshipment activity and regional shipping disruptions. During the first four months of 2026, the port handled more than 2.9 million TEUs, a 13.9% increase compared to the same period last year.
With over 80% of Colombo’s throughput consisting of transshipment cargo, the congestion is raising concerns among shipping lines over schedule reliability and operational costs. In response, authorities are accelerating capacity expansion projects, including developments at the East and West Container Terminals, to accommodate growing demand and reduce pressure on existing facilities.
Source: Journal of Commerce