
Luxury cruise liner entering the portThe Hambantota International Port (HIP) has achieved an impressive growth rate of 22% in 2024, matching its performance from the previous year.With its sights set on even higher numbers in 2025, the port is implementing upgrades to its infrastructure, including the introduction of gantry and yard cranes in the container yard.“These enhancements are part of HIP’s strategy to meet the growing demands of the shipping and logistics markets while positioning itself as a key player in the Indian Ocean region,” HIP said in a statement.The port’s bulk and break-bulk cargo sectors saw remarkable progress in 2024. During the first half of the year, volumes rose by 134% compared to the same period in 2023, increasing from 236,012 metric tons to 552,297 metric tons. This surge was largely attributed to the recovery of Sri Lanka’s construction sector, which collapsed in 2022, leading to a spike in cement imports. HIP has also cemented its reputation as a hub for bulk cargo distribution in Sri Lanka, with further growth expected by year-end.Gas operations at the...