The Managing Director of Onomichi Dockyard Company, Japan, and Director of Colombo Dockyard PLC (CDPLC), Kunio Kobatake, recently visited Hambantota International Port (HIP). This visit follows a newly signed agreement between CDPLC and the Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG) to construct a state-of-the-art ship repair workshop at the port.
Johnson Liu, Chief Representative of CM Group in Sri Lanka and CEO of HIPG, emphasised the strategic advantage of HIP's location. “HIP's position along the east-west routes of the Indian Ocean makes it an ideal site for developing and expanding ship repair services. The capacity to handle large volumes of repair work combined with CDPLC's expertise will make this partnership a vital part of the port’s operations.”
CDPLC is investing approximately 1 million USD in a new afloat repair facility, strengthening its presence at HIP. Thimira S. Godakumbura, Managing Director of CDPLC, said, “Our collaboration with Hambantota International Port has been mutually beneficial. The port's facilities allow us to offer advanced afloat repair services to a wide range of ships, including some of the largest ocean-going vessels. Our combined expertise, the port’s multipurpose capabilities, and experienced staff bode well for the future of our extended partnership. We anticipate a significant increase in business with the new state-of-the-art facility, ensuring that HIP becomes the premier destination for afloat repairs in the Indian Ocean region.”
CEO Johnson Liu added, “The new ship repair workshop will enhance our current services, further advancing HIP’s evolution into a fully multipurpose port. We eagerly await the completion of this project, which highlights HIPG’s commitment to operational excellence and economic growth within the maritime industry.”
During his visit, Kunio Kobatake inspected the site for the new afloat repair facility and expressed optimism about the partnership's potential benefits for both parties. He was accompanied by CDPLC director Furukawa, Tech Advisor Nozaki, GM Ship Repair Services S.G. Senadheera, and Consultant Benny Fernando.
The CDPLC workshop is expected to reach completion in the second quarter of 2025. Apart from enhancing the port’s ship repair capacity and afloat repair capabilities, the new facility is anticipated to create numerous business opportunities for the local community involved in ship supplies.