Bunker volumes
at the port have also increased considerably by almost 128%.
Building on this
success, HIP has expanded its services to accommodate diverse oil and gas
operations, including LPG vessel gas-ups and direct bunker supplies, clearly
demonstrating the port’s capacity to handle a variety of energy-related
operations.
“2024 is a year of significant achievements for our
Energy Services, and we are strongly reinforcing the port’s position as a
strategic energy hub in the regional and global maritime landscape, under the
China Merchants Group (CMG) and Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA” says Li
Yongzhuang General Manager, Energy Services Department of Hambantota
International Port Group (HIPG), adding that this milestone is particularly
significant for LAUGFS Gas.
“We are actively promoting the energy sector as a
growth market for HIP and expect these figures to continue rising. We are
confident of meeting our target annual oil and gas volumes by the end of this
year,” says Johnson Liu, Chief Representative of China Merchants Group (CMG) in
Sri Lanka and CEO of Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG
The port recently completed several LPG gas-ups and
direct bunker supply activities, including a direct supply to the McDermott
Derrick Barge No. 50 at the HIP Oil Jetty.
Looking ahead, the port is ready to begin Liquid Bulk Ship-to-Ship Operations
(STS), further affirming its status as an ‘Energy Hub’ in the region.
The expansion of operational capabilities at HIP,
facilitating a diverse range of maritime activities beyond traditional loading
and unloading, is a strategic enhancement crucial for the maritime industry.
This consolidation of essential operations within a single port streamlines
processes for global shipping companies, solidifying HIP’s strategic
importance.