The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is investing over half a billion dollars into a container terminal in the Port of Colombo, Sri Lanka.
According to DFC, the goal is to boost infrastructure in the South Asian region and support economic growth. The investment aims to enhance shipping capacity without increasing sovereign debt and strengthen ties with allies in the region.
The project involves collaboration with local sponsors, John Keells Holdings, and Adani Ports & Special Economic Zones Limited, ensuring it meets high-quality standards and contributes to long-term success in the Indo-Pacific.
DFC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Scott Nathan traveled to Sri Lanka to launch $553 million in financing to Colombo West International Terminal Private Limited to support the development of the deepwater West Container Terminal located within the Port of Colombo. Foreign Minister Ali Sabry and U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung joined CEO Nathan for the ceremonial launch of the new terminal.
DFC works to drive private-sector investments that advance development and economic growth while strengthening the strategic positions of our partners. That’s what we’re delivering with this infrastructure investment in the Port of Colombo
… said DFC CEO, Scott Nathan
The Port of Colombo is the largest and busiest transshipment port in the Indian Ocean. It has been operating at more than 90 percent utilization since 2021, signaling its need for additional capacity.
The new terminal will cater to growing economies in the Bay of Bengal, taking advantage of Sri Lanka’s prime position on major shipping routes and its proximity to these expanding markets.
The $553 million investment by DFC for the long-term development of the Port of Colombo’s West Container Terminal will facilitate private- sector-led growth in Sri Lanka and attract crucial foreign exchange inflows during its economic recovery.
… said U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung
