COLOMBO, Jan. 2 (Xinhua) -- The Port of Colombo recorded its highest container throughput on record in 2025, handling 8.29 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), according to Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA).

The figure exceeds the 7.79 million TEUs processed in 2024 and consolidates Colombo's position as South Asia's leading container hub. The year-on-year growth was achieved amid volatility in global shipping and trade flows.

According to SLPA, the performance was driven by contributions from all terminals operating within the port. Facilities managed by the SLPA continued to handle a substantial share of volumes, supporting both mainline services and feeder operations.

Colombo International Container Terminals sustained its role as a deep-water terminal serving ultra-large container vessels, supported by stable berth productivity and yard efficiency. South Asia Gateway Terminals provided consistent services for regional and transshipment cargo, while progress at the Colombo West International Terminal contributed to capacity expansion efforts underway at the port.

Colombo's evolution as a modern port dates back to the late 19th century, when construction of the first permanent breakwater transformed the harbour into a sheltered deep-water facility capable of year-round operations. ■