Adani Ports Commences Operations at Colombo West International Terminal

Colombo: The Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT) at the Port of Colombo has begun operations, marking a significant development in regional maritime logistics.

The terminal, developed under a public-private partnership, is operated by a consortium comprising Adani Ports & SEZ Ltd, John Keells Holdings PLC, and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority. The CWIT project represents an investment of USD 800 million and features a 1,400-metre quay length and 20-metre depth.

The terminal’s capacity to handle approximately 3.2 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) annually is expected to enhance cargo handling capabilities and improve vessel turnaround times. CWIT is the first deep-water terminal in Colombo to be fully automated. Construction of the terminal began in early 2022 and has achieved rapid progress.

The commencement of operations at CWIT is seen as a notable development in regional cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. The terminal’s opening is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the region.

“The commencement of operations at CWIT marks a momentous milestone in regional cooperation between India and Sri Lanka,” said Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group. “Not only does this terminal represent the future of trade in the Indian Ocean, but its opening is also a proud moment for Sri Lanka, placing it firmly on the global maritime map.”

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ) is a part of the globally diversified Adani Group.The project is expected to enhance global trade and connectivity in the region.

“We are proud to see the progress in the development of the West Container Terminal, a project that strengthens Sri Lanka’s position as a regional maritime hub,” said Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of John Keells Group. “This project is one of the John Keells Group’s largest investments and is among the most significant private-sector investments in Sri Lanka.”

APSEZ is the largest port developer and operator in India, with 7 strategically located ports and terminals on the west coast and 8 ports and terminals on the East coast. The company is also developing a transshipment port at Colombo, Sri Lanka, and operates the Haifa Port in Israel and Container Terminal 2 at Dar Es Salaam Port, Tanzania.