HIP reaffirms gateway status with first shipment for local manufacturer 

Trailers being loaded into the vessel using Terberg tractor 

The Hambantota International Port (HIP) recently facilitated the shipment of locally manufactured trailers, marking the beginning of its services to the local industry as a gateway port.

“The master plan of the Hambantota International Port clearly spells out supporting the development of Sri Lankan industries servicing overseas markets. 

This shipment for Dutch Lanka Trailers emphasizes HIP’s position as Sri Lanka’s gateway port and flags a new era for local manufacturers in terms of cost effective methods to reach their respective markets,” said Lance Zuo- General Manager Commercial and Marketing.

Dutch Lanka Trailers, which usually ship their volumes on flat beds via container vessels, opted to make its current shipment via a RORO carrier calling at HIP. The vessel Hestia Leader carrying 10 units of Dutch Lanka trailers left on October 26, headed for a Caribbean Island – USA via the Port of Ennore.

Prasanna Haturusinghe Director of Dutch Lanka Trailer Manufacturers while congratulating HIP and Dutch Lanka Teams for the achievement said the operation of discharging and loading was completed smoothly and the vessel sailed well ahead of the estimated time, which was a great cost saving for the company.  

“The port maintained high levels of productivity and efficiency, providing a streamlined service in handling our shipment.  While the operation was a cost saving for the company, this in turn helps us in contributing more to the economy.  This cooperation with Hambantota Port is one we intend to continue.”

Ajith Gunasekara Deputy General Manager Sales and Marketing of Dutch Lanka Trailer Manufacturers said, “We need to keep searching for innovative and cost effective freight options during this extremely volatile global logistics era in order to be competitive. This is a great initiative between HIP and Dutch Lanka as this route has never been used by Sri Lankan exporters before.”