Adani Ports Brings Global-Standard Terminal to Colombo

Newzdaddy Business Updates

Synopsis of the Article:

• Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd. has officially started operations at the Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT) in Sri Lanka.

• This is Colombo Port’s first fully automated deep-water terminal, aimed at transforming regional shipping logistics.

• The terminal is a result of a public-private partnership between Adani Ports, John Keells Holdings PLC, and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority, under a 35-year BOT (Build, Operate, Transfer) agreement.

• The USD 800 million investment includes a 1,400-metre quay length and 20-metre depth, capable of handling 3.2 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) per year.

• The project is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, and significantly boost Sri Lanka’s GDP.

• The new terminal will reduce congestion, improve vessel turnaround time, and enhance Colombo’s position as a transshipment hub in South Asia.

• Key figures like Gautam Adani and Krishan Balendra have lauded the project for promoting India–Sri Lanka cooperation and setting new global standards in port operations.

A major milestone has been reached in the shipping world as Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), India’s biggest port operator, officially begins operations at the Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT) in Sri Lanka. This move is more than just another business update—it marks a bold step forward in strengthening regional cooperation and economic growth between India and Sri Lanka.

Located at the Port of Colombo, CWIT is not just any terminal. It’s Colombo’s first fully automated deep-water terminal, designed with the future of global trade in mind. The terminal was developed under a 35-year Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) agreement. It’s managed by a powerful partnership that includes Adani Ports from India, John Keells Holdings PLC (a top Sri Lankan company), and the 

The total investment in the project is a whopping USD 800 million. The infrastructure is world-class, with a 1,400-metre quay length and 20-metre depth, allowing it to handle about 3.2 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) every year. What this means is faster ship handling, reduced delays, and more efficient cargo movements—not just for Sri Lanka but for the entire South Asian region.

Construction of the terminal began in early 2022 and moved quickly. Today, CWIT stands as a symbol of speed, scale, and modern engineering. With automation at its core, this terminal is all set to revolutionize the way shipping is done in Colombo.

Speaking on this proud occasion, Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, expressed great excitement. “This terminal isn’t just about cargo—it’s about a better future for trade in the Indian Ocean. It’s also a proud moment for Sri Lanka as it places itself firmly on the global maritime map. We’re happy to be part of this success story,” he said.

According to Mr. Adani, the CWIT project will also bring long-term benefits to the Sri Lankan economy. Thousands of jobs—both direct and indirect—will be created. As a result, local communities will grow, and Sri Lanka’s GDP will see a boost.

Krishan Balendra, Chairman of John Keells Group, also praised the project. He called CWIT one of the largest private-sector investments in Sri Lanka and said it will elevate Colombo’s role as a key transshipment hub for the region. “We believe this will help improve global trade and strengthen Sri Lanka’s connectivity to the world,” he said.

For the shipping and logistics industry, this terminal is a game-changer. It’s expected to ease port congestion, improve vessel turnaround time, and increase capacity. Most importantly, it helps both India and Sri Lanka work together toward shared goals.

In summary, the Colombo West International Terminal is more than just a port—it’s a new beginning. With cutting-edge technology, global partnerships, and a focus on inclusive growth, it is set to transform how South Asia handles maritime logistics. And with both India and Sri Lanka standing united on this front, the future of trade in the region looks brighter than ever.

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