Adani Ports Shares Jump Nearly 4% as Colombo Terminal Begins Operations

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) witnessed a sharp uptick in its stock price on Tuesday, climbing nearly 3.6% intraday to touch ₹1,151.95 on the BSE. The rally came shortly after the company officially announced the commencement of operations at the Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT) — a significant step forward in Adani Ports’ international expansion.

A Key Milestone in South Asia’s Maritime Sector

The Colombo West International Terminal, located at the strategic Port of Colombo, is a high-value infrastructure project that was under construction since 2022. Developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, the terminal is a collaboration between Adani Ports, Sri Lanka’s John Keells Holdings PLC, and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority.

This $800 million project brings with it cutting-edge infrastructure, including a 1,400-metre-long quay and a 20-metre depth, enabling it to handle around 3.2 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) annually.

“The terminal is the first fully automated deep-water port in Colombo,” making it a major upgrade in terms of cargo handling and vessel turnaround efficiency.

Strategic Importance for Sri Lanka and Adani Ports

This terminal not only marks a major win for Adani Ports’ international portfolio, but also plays a key role in Sri Lanka’s vision of becoming a regional maritime hub. By offering faster turnaround times and improved efficiency, CWIT is expected to draw more shipping lines and logistics partners to the region.

Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of John Keells Group, emphasized the project’s value to Sri Lanka’s global trade goals.

“We are proud to see the progress in the development of the West Container Terminal, a project that strengthens Sri Lanka’s position as a regional maritime hub,” he said.

Boost for Adani Ports Investors

For shareholders, this development is a positive signal for future growth. The addition of CWIT to Adani Ports’ portfolio not only expands its global footprint but also aligns with its long-term strategy of dominating key transshipment corridors across Asia.

Final Takeaway

The commencement of operations at the Colombo West International Terminal is a landmark moment for Adani Ports, reinforcing its leadership in port operations and logistics. It’s also a strategic gain for Sri Lanka’s maritime infrastructure, promising increased economic activity and better connectivity in the region.

With this move, Adani Ports continues to position itself as a key player in South Asia’s growing trade and shipping ecosystem.