Colombo logistics centre targets US $ 400mn investment

The United States has announced a $17 million grant for digital upgrades at the Port of Colombo, working with the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA). Newswire and Lanka Business Online reported the announcement on October 16; EconomyNext also dated its report October 16, 2026. Daily FT said the US Embassy in Colombo had announced the funding the day before.

The funding is intended for two linked systems: Sri Lanka’s Maritime Single Window and Port Community System. These platforms support maritime paperwork, regulatory clearances and data exchange. Lanka Business Online said electronic sharing would connect shipping companies, customs and immigration officials, port operators and businesses, replacing paper-based and disconnected procedures.

The upgrade is designed to improve coordination among the SLPA, Customs, terminal operators, shipping lines and other agencies involved in cargo handling. SLPA chairman Parakrama Dissanayake said, according to EconomyNext, improved links between data and administrative processes would help clear cargo and support vessel and cargo operations.

EconomyNext reported that US Ambassador Eric Meyer announced the grant during a visit to the port, after meeting senior maritime officials and government ministers. He said the project would support port modernisation, US supply chains and opportunities for American technology companies. Lanka Business Online attributed further remarks to Meyer, who noted that more than half a million containers of US imports and exports pass through Colombo each year and put US-related cargo handled there at around $30 billion annually.

The port is a major transshipment centre connecting South Asia to global markets. Reports describe the digital project as a way to speed trade and reduce shipping costs and delays. The reports provide no completion date or detailed implementation schedule. Separately, Daily Mirror reported that Sri Lanka is planning a logistics centre at the port, with a targeted investment of $350 million to $400 million.