The United States today (16) announced a US$ 17 million investment to digitize operations at the Port of Colombo, aimed at strengthening one of South Asia’s busiest and most strategically important maritime trade hubs.
According to a statement issued by the US Embassy in Sri Lanka, the project will be implemented in partnership with the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), introducing new digital systems using American technology to streamline port operations, accelerate cargo movement and reduce shipping delays and costs.
The US-funded project will support the development of two interconnected digital systems, the Maritime Single Window and the Port Community System, to improve coordination and accelerate cargo processing at the Port of Colombo.
These systems will enable shipping companies, Customs officials, immigration authorities, port operators and businesses to exchange information electronically, reducing paperwork and delays caused by disconnected procedures.
The Embassy stated that the Port of Colombo handles an estimated US$ 30 billion in US-related cargo annually, serving as a major transshipment hub connecting South Asia with global markets.
US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Eric Meyer said more than 500,000 containers carrying US inbound and outbound cargo pass through the Port of Colombo each year, representing billions of dollars in trade.
He noted that improving port efficiency and reducing shipping costs would strengthen supply chains, benefit American businesses and consumers, and create new commercial opportunities for American technology companies.
Meanwhile, Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Anura Karunathilaka said modernizing port operations is essential to maintaining Colombo’s position as a regional maritime hub.
He stated that the project would improve trade facilitation, attract business and strengthen Sri Lanka’s connections to international markets.
SLPA Chairman Dr. Parakrama Dissanayake also welcomed the initiative, stating that the new digital systems would improve coordination among agencies and businesses involved in port operations while providing more efficient and predictable services to shipping lines and customers.
According to the US Embassy, the project will also create opportunities for American technology companies to provide the hardware, software and technical expertise required for the digital upgrade.
An open and competitive selection process will be conducted to appoint an implementing partner.
The Embassy further stated that the investment is expected to strengthen critical international trade routes, support US supply chains and reinforce Sri Lanka’s role as a key maritime trading partner in the Indian Ocean. (Newswire)
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