The Port of Colombo recorded strong growth in the first nine months of 2025, handling 6.2 million TEUs, a 6.7% increase from the previous year, according to the Central Bank. September throughput rose 14.4% YoY to 742,116 TEUs, remaining flat compared to August.
Source: DailyFT
Transshipment volumes grew 4.8% to 4.94 million TEUs—nearly 80% of total activity—though September volumes dipped slightly month-on-month. Domestic handling increased 13.6% to 971,875 TEUs, while re-stowing recorded the strongest rise at 20% YoY.
Vessel calls across Colombo, Galle, Trincomalee, and Hambantota rose 12.6% to 3,792 ships, with 457 calls in September.
In the 2026 Budget, the Government announced major port development plans, including Phase II of the Western Container Terminal, Port Logistics Centres, and Colombo North Port. Digitalisation efforts, such as expanding the Port Community System, are also being accelerated.
However, exporters have raised concerns about recurring vessel omissions, which they say have caused raw material shortages, production delays, and missed export deadlines. The Free Trade Zone Manufacturers’ Association has urged authorities to improve yard efficiency, inter-terminal transfers, and terminal commissioning to restore reliability at Colombo Port.
Source: DailyFT
Transshipment volumes grew 4.8% to 4.94 million TEUs—nearly 80% of total activity—though September volumes dipped slightly month-on-month. Domestic handling increased 13.6% to 971,875 TEUs, while re-stowing recorded the strongest rise at 20% YoY.
Vessel calls across Colombo, Galle, Trincomalee, and Hambantota rose 12.6% to 3,792 ships, with 457 calls in September.
In the 2026 Budget, the Government announced major port development plans, including Phase II of the Western Container Terminal, Port Logistics Centres, and Colombo North Port. Digitalisation efforts, such as expanding the Port Community System, are also being accelerated.
However, exporters have raised concerns about recurring vessel omissions, which they say have caused raw material shortages, production delays, and missed export deadlines. The Free Trade Zone Manufacturers’ Association has urged authorities to improve yard efficiency, inter-terminal transfers, and terminal commissioning to restore reliability at Colombo Port.