Hambantota International Port (HIP) has successfully completed its first commercial ship-to-ship (STS) transfer for liquid cargo, marking a significant milestone in the port’s growth and capabilities. This operation, carried out in partnership with Singapore-based Shipload Maritime, involved the transfer of 3,170 metric tons (MT) of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) from the vessel IVAN6 to the Gas Challenger, a vessel operated by Laugfs Holdings.
The transfer operation was a vital step in meeting the growing demand for LPG, which is outpacing supply, with the transferred LPG directed to the Laugfs facility in Colombo. This achievement highlights HIP’s increasing role in the regional liquid cargo market and its commitment to becoming a key player in the energy sector.
HIP’s successful completion of the STS operation represents a crucial development for Sri Lanka, as it now becomes a viable alternative to the Maldives for liquid cargo transfers. Previously, such operations were only available in the Maldives, but with this development, Sri Lanka is poised to expand its position in the regional and international liquid cargo handling industry.
Bindu Ranasinghe, Deputy General Manager of Commercial & Marketing at Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG), stated, “Although HIP has been handling liquid cargo since 2021, this STS operation marks a new beginning for the port’s capabilities in liquid cargo handling. As the demand for LPG and other liquid cargo continues to grow, HIP is ready to provide cost-effective, efficient solutions tailored to the needs of global operations.”
Wilson Qu, CEO of HIPG, further emphasized the port’s ongoing efforts to enhance Sri Lanka’s international standing in the maritime industry. “HIPG is committed to elevating Sri Lanka’s image by delivering safe, efficient, and innovative services, establishing the port as a premier logistics hub in the Indian Ocean.”
With this first successful STS operation, Hambantota International Port reinforces its role as a rapidly emerging hub for liquid cargo handling, setting the stage for continued growth in the region’s energy and logistics sectors.
