A high-level delegation from Hapag-Lloyd, one of the world’s leading shipping lines, met with the Sri Lanka Port Authority’s Chairman -Admiral Sirimewan Ranasinghe and the Managing Director – Eng. Ganaka Hemachandra on March 4, 2025. SLPA’s Vice Chairman – Eng. Herath M.P. Jayawardhana, Director (Operations) – Mrs. G. Zavia Miskin and Director (Marketing and BD) – Mr. H J K U Kumara were also present at the ocasion. The meeting focused on explore potential business collaborations and strengthen existing ties, strengthening collaborative efforts, exploring future growth opportunities, and enhancing operational efficiencies within Sri Lanka’s maritime sector.
The Hapag-Lloyd delegation included,Capt. Prateek Gandhi – Director Operations, Hapag-Lloyd, Regional Office, Dubai,Mr. Faheem Mir – Manager – Operations, Hapag-Lloyd, Regional Office, Dubai,Mr. Lalith Witanachchi – Vice President, Hapag-Lloyd Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, Mr. Mindaka Dassanayake – General Manager, Hapag-Lloyd Lanka (Pvt) Ltd.,Mr. Rohan Ranasinghe – Terminal Operations Manager, Hapag-Lloyd AG and Mr. Iqram Cuttilan – Managing Director, Aitken Spence Shipping Ltd.
During the discussions, both parties emphasized the importance of fostering stronger partnerships to further position Sri Lanka as a strategic maritime hub in the region. The dialogue also focused on upcoming industry developments and Hapag-Lloyd’s ongoing commitment to improving service standards and sustainable shipping practices.
Hapag-Lloyd is a leading global liner shipping company with a fleet of 266 modern vessels and a total transport capacity of 2 million TEUs. The company is renowned for its comprehensive global network, superior customer service, and dedication to environmentally sustainable operations.
As the world’s fifth-largest shipping line, Hapag-Lloyd holds a 7.4% market share, according to Alphaliner rankings. The company recently announced a groundbreaking long-term operational collaboration with Maersk, known as the “Gemini Cooperation,” set to commence in February 2025. This partnership will cover seven major trade routes and provide 57 distinct services, including mainliner and dedicated shuttle services, along with extensive feeder operations. The combined fleet under the Gemini Cooperation will consist of approximately 340 modern, fuel-efficient vessels, with a total capacity of around 3.7 million TEUs, many of which are equipped to adopt cleaner fuels.
The meeting underscored the mutual commitment of Hapag-Lloyd and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority to fostering sustainable and innovative maritime solutions, ensuring Sri Lanka remains a key player in the global shipping industry.
This collaboration between Hapag-Lloyd and SLPA is expected to pave the way for enhanced efficiency, increased cargo handling capacity, and improved connectivity within South Asia’s shipping network. It also positions Sri Lanka as a key player in facilitating global trade through improved logistical operations and sustainable shipping practices.
The Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) is responsible for the management and development of the country’s ports and maritime facilities. With a strategic location on major shipping routes, SLPA is committed to providing world-class services and fostering international trade relations.
