SeaLead launches new liner service with Sri Lanka Ports Authority
Ada Derana: SeaLead Shipping, a rapidly growing global shipping line, officially inaugurated its new direct liner service in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at the Port of Colombo. This significant development enhances maritime connectivity between the Far East, India, and East Africa through the launch of the Far East India Djibouti (FID) service.
The inauguration ceremony at the Port of Colombo saw participation from distinguished representatives of both SeaLead and SLPA.
The FID service, which commenced operations on September 5, 2024, provides weekly liner services, connecting vital ports in China, India, and Djibouti. The westbound route starts in Shanghai and includes key stops at Ningbo, Nansha, Port Klang, Colombo, Nhava Sheva, and Mundra, culminating in Djibouti. The return eastbound journey links Djibouti directly back to Shanghai, streamlining trade across these critical regions.
In a statement from SeaLead, the company outlined the strategic advantages of the FID service. By providing direct connections between China, India, and Djibouti, the service is set to reduce transit times and boost trade efficiency across major global trade routes, especially with the inclusion of Colombo as a key hub port.
Prabath Malavige, Managing Director of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority, commented on the mutual benefits of the collaboration, emphasizing the vital role of the Port of Colombo in the global supply chain. “This partnership with SeaLead aligns with our ongoing commitment to strengthen Colombo’s status as a premier maritime hub in the region. The FID service will not only enhance trade connectivity but also solidify the Port of Colombo’s strategic importance in facilitating efficient global shipping operations.”
The introduction of the FID service reinforces SeaLead’s commitment to expanding its network, while also positioning Colombo as a critical player in the shipping and maritime industry for years to come.
OSL take:
Sri Lanka’s geographical positioning in the Indian Ocean in close proximity to international maritime lanes and the country’s strong trade ties with many foreign countries have opened up a host of new business/investment opportunities. The launching of a new liner service with the SLPA is indicative of the increasing business potential in Sri Lanka’s maritime industry. However, with Sri Lanka’s target of becoming a maritime hub in the South Asian region, there’s a surge in business/investment opportunities in the country’s maritime industry, especially in the ports, shipping and logistics sectors. Sri Lankan authorities have also identified the need for the expansion of the maritime industry and the need for the country’s ports, shipping and logistics sectors to be on par with the evolving global standards. Several key ports in Sri Lanka are already undergoing development and expansion projects to be on par with the increasing demand. The many business/investment opportunities in the maritime industry range from the development of infrastructure and supplementary infrastructure facilities required by the expanding industry and other indirect opportunities. With Sri Lanka’s maritime industry on a growth path with an increasing business potential, foreign businesses/investors engaged in the industry could confidently explore the expanding business/investment opportunities in the industry and its sub sectors.