Adani Ports kicks off operations at CWIT in Colombo, marking a key India-Sri Lanka maritime infrastructure milestone.
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone has commenced operations at the Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT) on April 6, 2025. Developed in partnership with the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and John Keells Holdings, the project marks a major step in India-Sri Lanka port collaboration.
Though commercial operations have begun, the first vessel is expected to call in May. The $800 million deep-water terminal features a 1,400-metre quay and 20-metre depth, enabling it to handle up to 3.2 million TEUs annually. It is also Colombo’s first fully automated terminal, aiming to improve cargo efficiency and turnaround times, reinforcing its role as a key South Asian transshipment hub.
Adani Ports holds a 51% stake in CWIT, with John Keells at 34% and SLPA at 15%. Chairman Gautam Adani described the terminal as a “milestone” in regional cooperation, enhancing Sri Lanka’s global maritime standing.
The project, signed in 2021 after cancellation of a prior India-Japan-Sri Lanka port deal, had earlier drawn scrutiny due to a lack of competitive bidding and controversies involving Adani Group. Despite setbacks, the Sri Lankan government is backing the terminal, citing its economic potential and local employment benefits.
CWIT stands as one of the few infrastructure investments continued through successive Sri Lankan administrations, amid shifting political and economic landscapes.Source: The Hindu
