HIP records high growth in operations in 2Q and 1H

The Hambantota International Port (HIP) has reported an impressive 100% increase in LPG volumes handled in the second quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Additionally, bunker volumes have surged by nearly 128%, showcasing the port’s enhanced capacity and operational efficiency.

Building on this success, HIP has broadened its service offerings to encompass a variety of oil and gas operations, including LPG vessel gas-ups and direct bunker supplies. This expansion underscores the port’s capability to manage a wide range of energy-related activities.

Li Yongzhuang, General Manager of the Energy Services Department at HIP, remarked, “2024 marks a year of significant achievements for our Energy Services. We are reinforcing the port’s position as a strategic energy hub in both regional and global maritime landscapes, under the leadership of China Merchants Group (CMG) and Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA).”

“In the first half of 2024, we saw a 91% increase in LPG volumes compared to last year. By the end of June 2024, our LPG throughput reached 149,980 metric tons, up from 78,724 metric tons the previous year. This increase, driven by robust demand from import and transshipment sectors, highlights the port’s strategic importance in the regional energy landscape. This milestone is particularly significant for LAUGFS Gas, indicating HIP’s growing role in the global energy supply chain,” added Li.

The growth in operations extends beyond LPG, with bunker services experiencing a 128% increase, reaching 66,044 metric tons in the first five months of 2024 compared to 28,923 metric tons in the same period last year. This growth includes bunker supplies within the port, at anchorage, and in outside port limit (OPL) areas, showcasing HIP’s strategic and technological advantages, as well as its growing capability and efficiency in handling complex maritime services.

Johnson Liu, Chief Representative of China Merchants Group in Sri Lanka and CEO of Hambantota International Port Group, stated, “We are actively promoting the energy sector as a growth market for HIP and anticipate continued growth in these figures. We are confident in meeting our target annual oil and gas volumes by year-end. Through strong partnerships with local and international stakeholders in the oil and gas industry, we are transforming the dynamics of the oil and gas sector in the Indian Ocean, while adhering to the highest standards of health, safety, and efficiency.”

Recently, the port has successfully 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, HIP is set to commence Liquid Bulk Ship-to-Ship (STS) operations, further cementing its status as a regional energy hub.

The expansion of HIP’s operational capabilities, 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.