IFC Plans $20m Boost for SAGT Crane Upgrades
- Editor
- February 3, 2026
- Business News, Investment
- IFC
- 0 Comments
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is planning a financing package of around USD 20 million for South Asia Gateway Terminals (SAGT), operated by John Keells Holdings, to support the upgrade of critical port equipment.
The funds are expected to be used primarily for the acquisition of new ship-to-shore cranes, replacing aging units that have exceeded their useful operational life. The financing structure may include IFC’s Managed Co-Lending Portfolio Program alongside parallel lenders.
SAGT, Sri Lanka’s first privately operated container terminal, plays a key role in Colombo Port’s transshipment operations. The crane upgrades are expected to enhance terminal productivity, improve vessel turnaround times, and reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
The investment comes as Sri Lanka seeks to strengthen its maritime economy and retain competitiveness amid growing regional port capacity. IFC has been associated with SAGT since its inception, including through equity participation.
