Government 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 setup an export-oriented oil refinery in Hambantota. 
Minister of Power and Energy Kanchana Wijesekera on Monday sought the approval of the Cabinet of Ministers to select an appropriate investor to establish an oil refinery in the proximity of Hambantota and to call for detailed proposals from investors who meet fundamental qualifications.
Minister Bandula Gunawardana noted that numerous parties including foreign investors have expressed interest in setting up an export–oriented oil refinery and a related products processing centre in the areas in close proximity to Hambantota port. Earlier, India’s Accord Group and Oman’s Ministry of Oil and Gas signed a US$ 3.85 billion agreement to build an oil refinery in Hambantota. However, the plan didn’t materialise.