Posted on April 9, 2025
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd. (APSEZ) has announced the commencement of operations at the Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT), located at the Port of Colombo.
Developed under a landmark public–private partnership, CWIT is operated by a consortium comprising APSEZ, Sri Lankan conglomerate John Keells Holdings PLC, and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority, under a 35-year Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) agreement.
The CWIT project represents a significant investment of $800 million and features a 1,400-metre quay length and 20-metre depth, enabling the terminal to handle approximately 3.2 million TEUs annually.
This is reportedly the first deep-water terminal in Colombo to be fully automated, designed to enhance cargo handling capabilities, improve vessel turnaround times and elevate the port’s status as a key transshipment hub in South Asia.
Construction began in early 2022 and has since achieved rapid progress. With the installation of infrastructure now nearing completion, CWIT is poised to set new benchmarks in operational efficiency and reliability in regional maritime logistics.
“The commencement of operations at CWIT marks a momentous milestone in regional cooperation between India and Sri Lanka,” said Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group.
“The CWIT project will create thousands of direct and indirect jobs locally and unlock immense economic value for the island nation.
“Delivering this world-class facility in record time also reflects the Adani Group’s proven ability to efficiently execute large-scale critical infrastructure projects anywhere in the world.”
“We are proud to see the progress in the development of the West Container Terminal, a project that strengthens Sri Lanka’s position as a regional maritime hub,” said Krishan Balendra, Chairperson, John Keells Group.
“This project is one of the John Keells Group’s largest investments and is among the most significant private-sector investments in Sri Lanka. Together with the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and the Adani Group, we will elevate Colombo’s status as a leading transshipment hub. We are confident that the project will enhance global trade and connectivity in the region.”
Late last year, Adani Gangavaram Port launched two Economic Grab Ship Cranes, marking a significant milestone as the first in India.
