Seatrade Maritime: Hambantota reports 151% surge in cargo volumes

Hambantota International Port (HIP) in Sri Lanka reported a 151% increase in cargo handling the first nine months of 2025 as a ban on vehicle imports into the country was lifted.

HIP handled 6.03 million tonnes of cargo in the first nine months of the year compared to 2.4 million tonnes in the same period in 2024. The port said the sharp increase in cargo handled was achieved despite “operational challenges” that resulted from the lifting of the ban on local vehicle imports.

The China Merchants run port also saw 26% growth in vehicle transhipment as well as a surge in imports.

HIP has invested $41 million in new cranes to boost its container handling capacity to 1 million teu annually.

“As we push toward the year’s end, HIP remains resolute in delivering reliable service under growing demand. Our teams continue refining operational processes to absorb ongoing growth, and we stand ready to collaborate with stakeholders, shipping lines, and government bodies to support Sri Lanka’s broader trade, energy, and logistics goals,” said Wilson Qu, CEO of HIP.