Current global crisis opens new opportunities – Chairperson SLSANA

The ongoing economic and geopolitical shifts may close some doors – but they also open new opportunities, opined the Chairperson of the Sri Lanka Association of NVOCC Agents (SLANA), Swabha Wickramasinghe, at the association’s 8th Annual General Meeting held at the Amari Hotel on Friday (27).

She noted that India’s recent rise – despite global uncertainties – to become the world’s fourth largest economy, surpassing Japan with a GDP now exceeding US$ 4 trillion, presents Sri Lanka with vast opportunities.

“Sri Lanka’s strategic position, especially Colombo’s location, places the country at the heart of Indian Ocean trade – at precisely the right time,” she said.

Wickramasinghe highlighted initiatives such as the India–UAE–Sri Lanka energy corridor, along with projects such as the new petroleum pipeline and upcoming LNG terminals, which are expected to bring in increased volumes of containerised project cargo.

She predicted that these developments would not only expand the diversity of cargo handled but also create new revenue opportunities for Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) operators.

At present, Sri Lanka has over 50 NVOCC agents, each representing multiple principals.

“While mainline operators cover these trade lanes, NVOCCs also serve ports from China to the Upper Gulf – including Russia – offering customers more choices and greater service flexibility.”

“As Sri Lanka’s maritime landscape continues to evolve, we must ensure that Colombo remains competitive. Our collaborations with India and the Gulf region, combined with ongoing port modernization, are key to this objective,” she added.

“As regional carriers, we are well-positioned with services connecting to India, China, the Middle East, the Far East and Russia – some of the world’s largest and fastest growing economies.”

“The potential ahead of us is enormous,” she said, speaking at the AGM after being elected for a second term.

However, Wickramasinghe also raised a concern: the inability to collect Terminal Handling Charges (THC).

“A globally accepted practice that was previously implemented in Sri Lanka has been removed. This inconsistency places our industry at a disadvantage. We must come together as a unified voice to strongly advocate for the reinstatement of THC collections,” she urged.

“This is not just about profitability – it’s about aligning with international norms to ensure long-term sustainability and competitiveness.”

Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation, Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku, assured the gathering that he would look into the Terminal Handling Charges issue.

He also stated that the government is keen to expand container terminals and build warehouses in Bloemendhal Road and Peliyagoda. For this, he said, industry experts will be consulted to advise the government.

“If the government proceeds alone without adhering to private sector suggestions, the projects will be failures – such as the Mattala Airport, which was executed without any industry consultation,” the Deputy Minister cautioned.