By: Staff Writer
July 29, Colombo (LNW): Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG) will build a modern ship repair workshop at the port as part of an agreement with Colombo Dockyard PLC (CDPLC).
Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG) is set to construct a state-of-the-art ship repair workshop at the port in accordance with the agreement between Colombo Dockyard PLC (CDPLC) and the Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG),
The Managing Director of Onomichi Dockyard Company, Japan, and Director of Colombo Dockyard PLC (CDPLC), Kunio Kobatake, recently visited Hambantota International Port (HIP).
This visit follows a newly signed agreement between CDPLC and the Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG) to construct a state-of-the-art ship repair workshop at the port.
Johnson Liu, Chief Representative of CM Group in Sri Lanka and CEO of HIPG, highlighted HIP’s strategic location along the Indian Ocean’s east-west routes, making it ideal for expanding ship repair services. He stated that HIP’s ability to handle large repair volumes, combined with CDPLC’s expertise, and would significantly enhance port operations.
CDPLC is investing around 1 million USD in a new afloat repair facility at HIP. Thimira S. Godakumbura, Managing Director of CDPLC, noted the mutual benefits of their collaboration with HIP. He mentioned that the port’s facilities enable them to offer advanced repair services to various ships, including large ocean-going vessels.
This partnership, supported by the port’s capabilities and experienced staff, is expected to increase business significantly and establish HIP as a key destination for repairs in the Indian Ocean region.
Johnson Liu added that the new workshop would further develop HIP into a multipurpose port, underscoring HIPG’s commitment to operational excellence and economic growth in the maritime sector.
During his visit, Kunio Kobatake inspected the site for the new facility and expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential. He was accompanied by CDPLC director Furukawa, Tech Advisor Nozaki, GM Ship Repair Services S.G. Senadheera, and Consultant Benny Fernando.
The CDPLC workshop is set to be completed by the second quarter of 2025. This new facility is expected to boost the port’s repair capacity, create business opportunities for the local ship supply community, and enhance afloat repair services.
CEO Johnson Liu added, “The new ship repair workshop will enhance our current services, further advancing HIP’s evolution into a fully multipurpose port. We eagerly await the completion of this project, which highlights HIPG’s commitment to operational excellence and economic growth within the maritime industry.”
