The 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 (HIP), as a logistic gateway for southern Sri Lanka.

The Rs. 1 billion project is a private-sector measure to enhance operational efficiency, regulatory compliance and trade facilitation. The developer will integrate modern technology and infrastructure in close collaboration with Sri Lankan Customs and other relevant government agencies involved in container inspection. The launching of the partnership was attended by Sri Lanka Customs official senior, the Director General of Customs Seevali Arukgoda.

RCT Chairperson Ravi Wijeratne said: “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.”

HIPG CEO Wilson Qu said: “These extensions to the container yard are in line with our original master plan for Hambantota and 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.”

Furthermore, RCT plans to replicate the one-stop-shop model in Hambantota, by providing container handling and inspection services designed to streamline cargo movement and minimise logistical bottlenecks.