Hambantota Port Container Volumes Surpass One Million TEUs

Hambantota International Port (HIP) has surpassed one million TEUs in cumulative container throughput, marking a major milestone in the rapid expansion of its container-handling operations.

HIP recorded 428,036 TEUs in 2025, followed by a further 574,196 TEUs in 2026 to date, bringing cumulative throughput to 1,002,232 TEUs.

HIPG CEO Wilson Qu said the milestone reflects growing customer confidence in the port and strengthens its position as an emerging container hub for regional and international trade. MSC, HIP’s main container-sector customer, has been a key contributor to the growth in volumes.

The port also recorded a single-vessel handling record of 13,260 TEUs in April 2026. In June, HIP achieved its highest monthly container throughput to date, reaching 80,325 TEUs.

To support continued growth, HIP is investing USD 108 million to expand its container-handling capabilities. The project includes six new quay cranes and 16 rubber-tyred gantry cranes, which are scheduled for commissioning by February 2027.

The expansion will add 1,300 metres of berth capacity and increase the container yard by 30%, enabling HIP to accommodate larger vessels and rising container volumes more efficiently.

HIP Chief Operations Officer Tommy Yang said the investments are aimed at supporting the port’s long-term ambition of handling two million TEUs annually.