In a landmark move that underscores Sri Lanka’s burgeoning role in global maritime trade, the Hambantota International Port (HIP) recently welcomed the CMA CGM SILVERSTONE—a state-of-the-art, LNG-powered car carrier making its inaugural call at the port. This impressive 200-meter-long vessel, built in 2024 and sailing under the Maltese flag, heralds not only a technological advancement in shipping but also a strategic expansion of vehicle transshipment routes across continents.
A Game Changer for HIP
CMA CGM’s decision to deploy the SILVERSTONE at HIP is far more than a routine port call. With a capacity to transport up to 7,000 cars, the vessel is purpose-built for the roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) segment—a niche market that is rapidly gaining momentum globally. As noted by Kingsley Abeywickrama, Director of CMA CGM Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, “CMA CGM bringing its first pure car carrier vessel to Sri Lanka is a significant moment.” The vessel’s arrival from Singapore carrying 333 loading units, which include a range of vehicles, is a clear indication of HIP’s rising prominence as a regional hub.
The Vessel That’s Setting New Standards
Unlike traditional RoRo vessels, which typically juggle mixed cargo, the CMA CGM SILVERSTONE is exclusively designed to handle vehicles, ensuring that every inch of its expansive deck is optimized for automotive transport. Powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), the ship is not only environmentally friendly but also represents a shift toward cleaner energy solutions in maritime logistics—a fact that resonates with environmentally conscious consumers and industry stakeholders alike.
Transforming Transshipment Dynamics
The current voyage, although a trial run, offers a unique opportunity for both CMA CGM and HIP to evaluate the potential of this route. The ship is set to carry the transshipped vehicles from Hambantota all the way to Casablanca, Morocco. This nonstop journey is part of a broader strategy to establish HIP as a critical intermediary hub in the global network for vehicle transshipment, a role traditionally dominated by larger ports.
For decades, vehicles manufactured in powerhouse countries like India, Japan, China, and South Korea have found their way to global markets through transshipment hubs. With HIP steadily gaining traction as a vital node in this network, the port is now poised to challenge established players, promising more efficient turnaround times and cost-effective operations that could benefit both manufacturers and middle-class consumers looking for quality vehicles at competitive prices.
Strategic Expansion and Future Prospects
CMA CGM is not new to the Sri Lankan market and is renowned as one of the world’s top three container shipping operators. With 14 container vessels calling at the Port of Colombo weekly, the company has long been an influential figure in the region. However, its expansion into the RoRo segment with the SILVERSTONE marks a pivotal diversification of its operations. If the vessel’s maiden call meets expectations, it will likely open up new commercial avenues.
Lance Zuo, General Manager Commercial and Marketing of HIPG, highlighted the potential for growth: “As CMA CGM continues to expand its RoRo capabilities, this maiden call signals the company’s intent to explore new opportunities in vehicle transshipment, leveraging HIP’s strategic location and modern infrastructure.” This sentiment is echoed by industry experts who believe that HIP’s modern facilities and strategic positioning could transform the dynamics of regional trade.
Beyond the Horizon
For the middle-class reader, the arrival of the SILVERSTONE is not just a tale of maritime prowess but also a reflection of shifting global economic landscapes. As new technologies and energy solutions redefine traditional industries, the ripple effects will eventually reach consumers in the form of better prices, higher quality products, and a more robust trade environment.
In essence, the maiden voyage of the CMA CGM SILVERSTONE at Hambantota International Port is more than a maritime milestone—it is a glimpse into the future of international shipping. By blending cutting-edge technology with strategic foresight, HIP and CMA CGM are setting the stage for a new era of global trade, one that promises efficiency, sustainability, and dynamic growth in the world of vehicle transshipment.
