Sri Lanka: Further delays likely at Colombo Port through at least late January due to capacity constraints

Further congestion and delays are likely at Colombo Port through late January due to capacity constraints. Reports indicate that around 1,000 container transport vehicles are stranded at the port because of significant delays in clearing imported containers. The Container Transport Vehicle Owners Association has attributed the congestion to inefficiencies at the Ports Authority and Sri Lanka Customs, with drivers reportedly stuck at the port for almost a week.

Shipping delays could prompt supply chain disruptions over the coming weeks. A build-up of heavy freight vehicles on roads leading to the port could cause disruptions to primary entry routes. Nearby ports, including Galle and Trincomalee, may experience increased traffic as shippers seek alternative routes.