Sri Lanka: Hambantota port says focused on fast cargo clearance amid reports of vehicle backlog

Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG) said it focuses on rapid cargo clearance and minimising storage time amid reports of a vehicle backlog.

HIPG clarified that only 1,278 vehicles have been at the port for over three months and 581 for over a year, not 1,000 as reported.

All long-stay vehicles belong to the domestic import sector, with delays linked to Sri Lanka's vehicle import restrictions imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The island nation lifted the ban and resumed vehicle imports in 2025 after nearly five years.

HIPG is a public-private partnership between Sri Lanka Ports Authority and China Merchants Port Holdings, with the Chinese company holding an 85% stake.