Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) has doubled the container handling capacity of Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT) to 3.2 million TEUs at an investment of $750 million.
The expansion will further CWIT’s ambition to handle nearly 25% of the Port of Colombo’s 13 million TEU target by 2028.
With additional capacity, CWIT would be able to simultaneously berth three ultra-large container vessels, strengthening Colombo’s position as a critical transshipment hub on the East-West trade route.
Handles 2 million TEUs in 18 months
Building on its earlier record as the fastest terminal to handle 1 million TEUs within its inaugural year in 2024, CWIT has achieved yet another milestone in the Port of Colombo’s history by handling 2 million TEUs within its first 18 months of operation.
Developed by APSEZ, John Keells Holdings and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority under a 35-year BOT concession, CWIT has generated over 3,000 direct and indirect jobs.
Creating jobs, attracting international trade
While inaugurating the expanded facility, Sri Lanka Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya said: “Reaching 2 million TEUs in record time and commencing Phase II today is not just a milestone for the Port of Colombo, but a milestone for our nation’s economic future.”
“As Sri Lanka strengthens its position at the crossroads of global trade, investments such as CWIT are creating jobs, attracting international commerce, enhancing competitiveness, and reinforcing our ambition to become the leading maritime and logistics hub of the Indian Ocean,” he said.
Can berth three ultra large container vessels
“With expanded capacity, full automation and deep-water infrastructure, CWIT is built to be Colombo’s premier transshipment gateway and contribute to EXIM cargo in Sri Lanka,” Ashwani Gupta, Whole-Time Director and CEO, APSEZ said.
“With the expansion of the terminal, we see an even greater opportunity to strengthen Colombo’s position as a key transshipment hub and support Sri Lanka’s growth as an important centre for trade in the region,” said Krishan Balendra, Chairperson, John Keells Group.
CWIT background
CWIT is Sri Lanka’s first fully automated deep-water container terminal. It is built to serve the world’s largest container vessels through fully electrified operations and zero tailpipe emissions.
The terminal has recorded 17 million safe working hours, underscoring its safety and workforce credentials alongside its operational and environmental performance.