Hambantota International Port in Sri Lanka has handled a call by an NYK Line car carrier powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), highlighting the port’s growing role in vehicle handling and environmentally focused shipping operations.
The LNG dual-fuel vessel called at Hambantota as part of its vehicle transport operations, with the port providing cargo-handling and related services.
LNG-powered vessels are increasingly being introduced across the automotive shipping sector as shipping lines seek to reduce emissions and comply with tightening environmental regulations. LNG dual-fuel technology allows vessels to operate on LNG as well as conventional marine fuels, providing greater flexibility while reducing emissions compared with traditional fuel options.
Hambantota has developed into an important transshipment and vehicle-handling hub in the Indian Ocean, particularly for the movement of automobiles between Asian production centres and international markets.
The latest NYK call further supports the port’s efforts to attract modern, fuel-efficient vessels and strengthen its position in the regional automotive logistics chain.
The growing number of alternative-fuel vessels calling at Hambantota also reflects the wider shift toward cleaner shipping technologies across global maritime trade.