Govt. to call EOIs to set up export-oriented oil refinery in Hambantota

The Cabinet nod has been granted to call for proposals from prospective investors to set up an export-oriented oil refinery in Hambantota. 

Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera on Monday sought the approval of the Cabinet of Ministers to select an appropriate investor for establishing an oil refinery in the proximity of Hambantota and to call for detailed proposals from investors who meet fundamental qualifications.

Cabinet Spokesperson and Transport, Highways and Mass Media Minister Bandula Gunawardana noted that numerous parties, including foreign investors, have expressed interest in setting up an export-oriented oil refinery and a related product processing centre in the areas in close proximity to the Hambantota port.

Earlier, India’s Accord Group and Oman’s Oil and Gas Ministry signed a US $ 3.85 billion agreement to build an oil refinery in Hambantota. However, the plan didn’t materialise.