(Commonwealth_ The Colombo East Container Terminal (CECT) has recently taken a significant step in enhancing its operational capacity with the addition of three new Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes. This expansion brings the total number of STS cranes at the terminal to nine, significantly boosting its ability to handle a wider range of vessels, regardless of their size. The latest development is part of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority’s (SLPA) ongoing strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening Sri Lanka’s position as a leading maritime hub in the Indian Ocean.
With its enhanced infrastructure, the CECT is poised to become one of the most efficient container terminals in the region. By the time it reaches full operational capacity by mid-2025, the terminal is projected to handle up to 3.5 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) annually. The expansion will not only improve cargo-handling efficiency but also contribute to increased trade flows, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s crucial role in global shipping and logistics.
The CECT boasts an impressive berth length of 1,320 meters and a water depth ranging from 18 to 20 meters, making it well-equipped to accommodate larger vessels. This depth capacity is particularly significant as it enables the terminal to handle some of the world’s largest container ships, further solidifying its importance as a critical node in regional and international maritime trade. The ability to process mega-container ships efficiently will enhance Sri Lanka’s competitiveness in the global shipping industry and attract more transshipment cargo.
The expansion of the CECT aligns with broader efforts to strengthen the overall performance of the Port of Colombo. In 2024, terminals under the SLPA achieved a record-breaking throughput of 2.41 million TEUs, reflecting a consistent upward trend in cargo-handling capabilities. This milestone highlights the Port of Colombo’s integral role in international trade and its ability to cater to growing shipping demands.
Collectively, the Port of Colombo and its partner terminals set a new benchmark in 2024, achieving a historic total throughput of 7.78 million TEUs. This achievement underscores the port’s position as a vital transshipment hub in South Asia, serving major shipping routes and global trade networks. The terminal’s ability to efficiently process increasing cargo volumes is a testament to the SLPA’s commitment to continuous development and modernization.
Several key contributors played pivotal roles in the Port of Colombo’s success. The South Asia Gateway Terminals (SAGT) processed an impressive 2.02 million TEUs, while the Colombo International Container Terminal (CICT) led the way with 3.35 million TEUs. The deep-water facilities at CICT have been instrumental in accommodating ultra-large container vessels, further boosting the port’s overall efficiency and throughput capacity.
As the CECT continues to expand and integrate advanced port technologies, its impact on Sri Lanka’s economy is expected to be substantial. Increased handling capacity and improved efficiency will not only enhance Sri Lanka’s attractiveness as a maritime hub but also contribute to job creation and economic growth. The expansion aligns with the SLPA’s long-term vision to develop Sri Lanka into a logistics and transshipment powerhouse in the Indian Ocean region.
In addition to its infrastructure improvements, the CECT is expected to adopt modern digital solutions to optimize port operations further. Investments in automation, smart logistics, and real-time tracking systems will play a crucial role in streamlining cargo movement, reducing turnaround times, and enhancing overall productivity.
Looking ahead, the ongoing developments at the CECT and the broader Port of Colombo reflect a commitment to staying competitive in the evolving global shipping landscape. As demand for maritime trade continues to grow, Sri Lanka’s strategic geographic location and continued infrastructure advancements will position the country as a key player in international logistics and transshipment operations. The expansion of the CECT is not just a milestone for the Port of Colombo but a significant step forward in strengthening Sri Lanka’s economic resilience and trade connectivity.
