April 28, Colombo (LNW): The Hambantota International Port (HIP) has recently seen renewed activity with the arrival of a significant consignment of imported vehicles, signalling a revival in the automobile trade following the lifting of the import restrictions.
Last week, the port received a delivery of 1,560 used vehicles, marking the first such shipment by a Seven Seals vessel under the newly relaxed regulations.
This consignment, carried aboard the roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessel MV Viking Drive, featured a selection of popular Japanese models along with four High and Heavy units, which typically include larger commercial and specialised vehicles.
The shipment reflects the growing appetite within the local market for imported vehicles, a demand that had been stifled for years due to stringent controls.
The Viking Drive, operated by Seven Seals Company Ltd., is a substantial vessel, stretching 164 metres in length and 28 metres in width, and is capable of transporting approximately 3,500 vehicles per journey.
Its voyage route links Japan with Sri Lanka, making a scheduled transit through Bangladesh before returning, thus serving as a vital corridor for vehicle imports in the region.
Officials at Hambantota Port have reported a noticeable uptick in interest from importers since the easing of restrictions, with Seven Seals already planning another shipment scheduled for early May.
The resurgence of such commercial activities is not only anticipated to meet pent-up consumer demand but also to contribute positively to port operations and the broader economy, providing a welcome boost to sectors reliant on international trade.
Port authorities, whilst celebrating this revitalisation, have reiterated their commitment to maintaining efficiency and ensuring that the new influx of imports is handled with the highest standards of logistics management.
