The Hambantota International Port (HIP) commenced its inaugural container transshipment service operated by the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC).
MV ‘MSC Ingrid’ made its maiden call at Hambantota International Port (HIP) on 9th April, discharging over 500 TEUs of transshipment containers. These containers, originating from Rotterdam Port, will be transferred to the second carrier, ‘MSC Sky 11’, expected to arrive on 16th April, and will reach Dubai as their final destination.
Johnson Liu, CEO of HIPG, expressed his enthusiasm for this new Container Transshipment service with MSC, marking a significant milestone for the port. He highlighted the strategic importance of this partnership in enhancing Sri Lanka’s marine connectivity and announced plans to expand infrastructure to accommodate larger vessels on the east-west shipping route..
Meanwhile, Tissa Wickremasinghe, COO of HIPG, emphasized the importance of container handling for completing HIP’s operations and boosting the Port Industrial Zone. He sees HIP as a gateway and transshipment port that will benefit investors by facilitating direct import and export of raw materials and finished products.
Shamal Perera, representing MSC Geneva, highlighted MSC’s commitment to providing the best services to customers and commended the forward-thinking move by the Minister of Ports & Shipping to provide connectivity between HIP and the Port of Colombo.