Rank Container Terminals to develop container cargo inspection yard at HIP

Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG) has partnered with Rank Container Terminals (Pvt) Ltd (RCT) to develop a purpose-built container cargo inspection yard within the port premises.

The new facility will serve as a centralised inspection point for all local import and export containers handled through Hambantota International Port, strengthening the port’s role as a key logistics gateway for southern Sri Lanka.

The Rs. 1 billion project represents a significant private sector commitment to improve operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and trade facilitation. The developer will integrate modern technology and infrastructure in close collaboration with Sri Lanka Customs and other relevant government agencies involved in container inspection.

The groundbreaking ceremony launching the partnership was attended by senior Sri Lanka Customs officials, including Director General of Customs Seevali Arukgoda.

“This facility is mainly targeted at servicing the southern hinterland of Sri Lanka. With the Colombo Port facing an excess of supply, HIP can help reduce the pressure by providing an efficient alternative for container handling and inspection,” said Ravi Wijeratne, Chairman of RCT.

“These extensions to the container yard are in line with our original master plan for Hambantota,” said Wilson Qu, CEO of HIPG. “Each new development strengthens the port’s ability to meet the growing logistical demands of the region and positions HIP as a key enabler of trade and industrial growth in southern Sri Lanka.”

Founded in 1994, Rank Container Terminals operates as Sri Lanka’s leading inland clearance depot facility in Colombo and is recognised as the country’s pioneer import inspection facility.

Leveraging this experience, RCT plans to replicate its successful one-stop-shop model in Hambantota by providing comprehensive container handling and inspection services designed to streamline cargo movement and minimise logistical bottlenecks.