Colombo Port Sees Growth but Exporters Warn of Delays

Container volumes at Colombo Port rose 6.7% year-on-year in the first nine months of 2025 to nearly 6.2 million TEUs, according to new Central Bank data. September throughput climbed 14.4% to 742,116 TEUs, though volumes were almost unchanged from August, signalling emerging congestion.

Transshipment cargo, which accounts for 80% of total volumes, increased 4.8% to 4.94 million TEUs. Domestic handling also rose 13.6% during the period, while vessel traffic across all ports reached 3,792 ships, up 12.6%.

Despite the growth, exporters warn that recurring vessel omissions at Colombo are disrupting supply chains. The Free Trade Zone Manufacturers’ Association says omissions are causing shortages of raw materials, production delays and missed export deadlines. Exporters are urging authorities to improve yard efficiency, strengthen inter-terminal links and expedite new terminal projects to restore reliability.

 

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