SLPA terminals achieve historic 2.4mn TEUs milestone

• Port of Colombo has also achieved an all-time high, handling 7.7 million TEUs in 2024
• Colombo International Container Terminal (CICT) managed 3.3 million TEUs, while South Asia Gateway Terminal (SAGT) handled 2.0 million TEUs

The Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) terminals have reached a historic milestone as of 31 December 2024, handling over 2.4 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs), which is a 23 percent growth compared to the 1.9 million TEUs handled in 2023.

The progress positions SLPA Terminals as the highest growth contributor within the Port of Colombo.
SLPA Terminals have demonstrated their ability to handle some of the world’s largest vessels at East Container Terminal (ECT), including ships exceeding 400 metres in length and capable of carrying more than 23,000 TEUs. 
“This accomplishment underscores the terminal’s advanced capabilities and its growing stature within the global maritime industry,” the SLPA said.

In a broader context, the Port of Colombo has also achieved an all-time high, handling 7.7 million TEUs in 2024. This represents a 12.3 percent increase compared to the 6.9 million TEUs handled in 2023, reaffirming the port’s status as a key hub in the South Asian region and its growing appeal to international shipping lines.
The Colombo West International Container Terminal (CWICT) is set to commence operations in February 2025, significantly enhancing the port’s overall capacity. 

Meanwhile, the semi-automated East Container Terminal (ECT) terminal, currently under development, positions SLPA Terminals to attract additional services and handle higher volumes in 2025. 

Looking ahead, the port’s total capacity is projected to double to 15 million TEUs by 2026, driven by improved logistics infrastructure designed to support global trade opportunities. 

Furthermore, in 2024, the Colombo International Container Terminal (CICT) managed 3.3 million TEUs, while the South Asia Gateway Terminal (SAGT) handled 2.0 million TEUs, showcasing the port’s robust and comprehensive handling capabilities.