Sri Lanka plans to invite investors for a new container terminal next year as part of efforts to expand capacity at the fast-growing Port of Colombo, Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku said.
With the Adani–John Keells-led West Container Terminal 1 (WCT1) and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA)-controlled East Container Terminal (ECT) scheduled for completion in 2026, the government says continued expansion is essential to handle rising regional demand.
“But do we stop there?” Kodithuwakku said. “We have to continue this momentum if we are to take on the regional volume. As soon as we came, we started the detailed designs of WCT2. We expect to call Expressions of Interest for WCT2 investors by August 2026 based on the interim report of the detailed designs.”
The SLPA is also carrying out a feasibility study for the proposed Colombo North Port, a major long-term development intended to further increase capacity and competitiveness.
Ports and Civil Aviation Minister Anura Karunathilaka said Colombo Port is now operating close to its current capacity of 8 million TEUs. Construction of the quay wall and yard at the ECT is underway, and the terminal is expected to be fully operational by September 2026.
Once completed, the ECT will add 2.5 million TEUs of capacity, significantly boosting the port’s throughput capability.
Karunathilaka added that ECT currently accommodates two vessels, but due to delays in procuring straddle carriers—following cancelled tenders—the terminal will continue operations using prime movers until new equipment is secured.
The government expects the combined development of WCT1, ECT, WCT2, and future projects such as Colombo North Port to position Colombo as a top transshipment hub in the region.