HIP Receives First Post-Ban Shipment of Used Vehicles from Japan

Hambantota International Port (HIP) has received a consignment of 1,560 used vehicles, marking the first shipment on a Seven Seals vessel to the port since the lifting of the import ban. The shipment included four High and Heavy units, while the remainder consisted of popular models such as Toyota Land Cruiser, Prado, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota Raize, Honda Vezel, Daihatsu, and Suzuki Wagon R from Japan.

Lance Zuo, General Manager of Commercial and Marketing at HIPG, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “This marks a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s post-pandemic recovery. Welcoming the first shipment of used vehicles from Japan since the lifting of import restrictions clearly reflects a rebound in market activity.”

The shipment was delivered via the roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessel MV Viking Drive, operated by Seven Seals Company Ltd., and locally represented by Marine International Agencies Ltd. The company, which was instrumental in establishing HIP as a vehicle import hub between 2015 and 2020, is poised to expand operations alongside its principal partner, Seven Seals Japan, as local demand gains momentum.

Nimal Chandrasiri, Operations Director at Marine International Agencies Ltd., stated, “We were the first to initiate local vehicle imports through Hambantota Port. The pause caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent economic challenges has now given way to renewed momentum in the industry.”

Following the resumption of imports, Seven Seals has already scheduled another shipment for early May. The Viking Drive, measuring 164 meters in length and 28 meters in width, has a capacity of approximately 3,500 vehicles. The vessel follows a route from Japan, transiting through Bangladesh before returning.

HIP continues to uphold stringent safety and efficiency protocols, ensuring minimal vehicle damage and efficient handling. “Since HIPG took over port management, we’ve observed notable improvements in vehicle care and security. With market confidence on the rise and logistics strengthening, the resumption of vehicle imports signals a positive shift for Sri Lanka’s automotive sector,” added Chandrasiri.