SLPA and MSC mark a major step in expanding Colombo Port’s capacity and strengthening Sri Lanka’s role as a regional maritime hub.
The Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), on 4 November 2025, marked another milestone in the development of the Colombo East Container Terminal (CECT) with the commencement of second berthing pre-test operations. The two vessels involved—the ultra-large MSC CHINA and the feeder vessel MSC MANASA F—were berthed simultaneously, demonstrating the enhanced operational capacity of the new terminal. With the new berth now operational, SLPA terminals can handle such vessels concurrently, further strengthening the Port of Colombo’s role as a central hub in regional maritime trade.
The ceremonial operation, carried out in partnership with the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), SLPA’s largest volume contributor, reflects the continued strong working relationship between the two organizations.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation, Hon. Anura Karunathilaka, emphasized that this achievement reflects both national progress and institutional commitment. “The present government, together with the collaborative efforts of the SLPA, has successfully accelerated the previously delayed construction of the Colombo East Container Terminal. With partial operations commencing by the end of this year and full operational status expected next year, the terminal will make an even greater contribution to strengthening the national economy,” he said.
SLPA Chairman Admiral Sirimewan Ranasinghe (Rtd) noted that the second berth would further enhance the operational efficiency and credibility of the Port of Colombo. “This development brings renewed confidence among our international partners and increases the handling capacity of the SLPA. It strengthens our ability to handle large-scale vessels and positions the Port of Colombo more firmly among the leading ports in the region,” he stated.
Representing MSC, Mr. Shamal Perera, Director – Operations and Regional Operations Manager of MSC Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, reaffirmed the company’s ongoing partnership with the SLPA. “We look forward to seeing more vessels and greater cargo volumes coming into Colombo. The cooperation between MSC and SLPA continues to deliver tangible results for both the port and the shipping community,” he said.
Construction at the CECT has now reached a total of 900 metres of completed quay length, with the remaining 300 metres approximately 80 per cent finished. The terminal has a depth ranging from 18 to 20 metres. Development includes the installation of automated rail-mounted gantry crane lanes, with lanes one to ten already tested and lanes eleven to twenty progressing on schedule. Full operational readiness is targeted for the early last quarter of 2026.
In the first nine months of 2025, the SLPA handled 2.1 million TEUs, representing a 2.7 per cent increase over the same period last year, with MSC remaining the leading contributor alongside other top global shipping lines.
The event was attended by senior officials and stakeholders from both the SLPA and MSC. Representing the SLPA were Vice Chairman Eng. Herath M. P. Jayawardhana, Managing Director Eng. Ganaka Hemachandra, Harbour Master Capt. Nirmal Silva, together with Directors and Chief Managers. MSC Lanka (Pvt) Ltd was represented by its senior management team, including Managing Director Mr. Uminda Dunuwille, Director – Operations and Regional Operations Manager Mr. Shamal Perera, and General Manager – Operations Mr. Sylesh Peerez.
