By: Staff Writer
September 05, Colombo (LNW): The Port of Colombo has achieved significant recognition, being named the best-performing port globally for the first quarter of 2024 by Alphaliner, a renowned information platform in the liner shipping industry.
This accolade is attributed to Colombo’s remarkable 23.6% growth rate, surpassing all other ports worldwide. The Port of Long Beach in Los Angeles and the Port of Tanjung Pelepas followed, with growth rates of 23.3% and 22.7%, respectively.
The first half of 2024 marked an outstanding period for the Port of Colombo. Compared to the same period in 2023, the port saw a 19.2% increase in domestic volumes, a 9.6% rise in transshipment volumes, and a 12.5% surge in total volumes.
The Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) terminals played a crucial role in this success. From January to June 2024, these terminals recorded a 23.6% increase in domestic volumes, a 15.5% rise in transshipment volumes, and a 17.7% overall growth.
Strategically located as a key maritime hub in South Asia, the Port of Colombo features several main container terminals, including the Jaya Container Terminal (JCT), Colombo East Container Terminal (CECT), South Asia Gateway Terminal (SAGT), and Colombo International Container Terminal (CICT).
The JCT and CECT, managed by the SLPA, are equipped with advanced technology, ensuring efficient cargo handling. The privately operated SAGT and CICT further enhance the port’s capacity and operational efficiency, attracting major global shipping lines.
SLPA Chairman Keith D. Bernard recently emphasized the port’s commitment to further improving productivity and efficiency through advanced port technology and automation.
Speaking at a seminar organized by the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (UK) Sri Lanka Branch, Bernard addressed the challenges of port congestion, space restrictions, and equipment shortages.
Despite these hurdles, he highlighted the Port of Colombo’s resilience and adaptability, which have cemented its role as a crucial hub in global trade.
Bernard outlined several technological initiatives designed to enhance the port’s operations. These include implementing smart terminals, Advanced Terminal Operating Systems (TOS), a Port Community System (PCS), a Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS), and a Megaport Radiation Detection System.
Additionally, the port plans to introduce the latest ERP systems and green port initiatives to streamline operations and support sustainability.
Colombo’s recognition as the best-performing port globally reflects its operational success and growth trajectory. Bernard also noted the port’s readiness to handle distress vessels, supported by recent technological advancements.
He emphasized Colombo’s strategic infrastructure improvements, effective crisis management, and adaptive responses to global trends, all of which contribute to the port’s critical role in maintaining efficient and secure global supply chains.
Through these efforts, the Port of Colombo aims to remain a vital node in the global maritime network, ensuring resilience and sustainability amid evolving trade dynamics.
