Secretary to the Ministry of Ports, Naval, and Aviation Services, K. D. S. Ruwanchandra, said that Alphaliner, a prominent research publication in the shipping industry, has recognized Colombo Port as the world’s fastest-growing port
in the first quarter of 2024 due to its remarkable operational performance and 23.6% growth rate.
He added that the port generated an income of USD 50 million in the first quarter of 2024, emphasizing that the various trade union actions taken in the past did not impede this progress.
Secretary Ruwanchandra observed that in 2023, the Sri Lanka Port Authority reported a profit of USD 100 million
Addressing a press briefing at the Presidential Media Centre recently, Secretary Ruwanchandra observed that in 2023, the Sri Lanka Port Authority reported a profit of USD 100 million, and in just the first quarter of 2024, it has already made a profit of USD 50 million.
All four terminals have significantly contributed to these operations, with on-going efforts to enhance their operational capacity. Construction of the Eastern Container Terminal (ECT) and the Western Terminal is in progress, with the Western Terminal expected to begin operations in February 2025.
Secretary Ruwanchandra disclosed that development work is underway at the Eastern Terminal and Northern Port.
"Development projects are also being carried out at Trincomalee, Galle, and Kankesanthurai ports and a passenger ferry service from India operates every Friday using the newly constructed terminal building at the Kankesanthurai Port.
Airline operations have improved by 25% compared to 2023, with significant increases in both passenger and cargo services. The number of air service arrivals has risen from 36 in 2023 to 46 by July 2024,” he added.
