SeaLead Shipping, a rapidly growing global shipping line, officially inaugurated its new direct liner service in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at the Port of Colombo. This significant development enhances maritime connectivity between the Far East, India, and East Africa through the launch of the Far East India Djibouti (FID) service.

The inauguration ceremony at the Port of Colombo saw participation from distinguished representatives of both SeaLead and SLPA. Mr Bongso Basheer, General Manager Liner Management of SeaLead Shipping in Singapore, along with Mr Harsha De Silva, Managing Director of Specialised Shipping Services, and several other senior executives from SeaLead, were in attendance. Representing SLPA were Mr Lal Weerasinghe, Additional Managing Director of Operations; Harbour Master Captain Nirmal Silva; Mr. U. Kumara, Director of Operations and CEO of Colombo East Container Terminal (CECT); and Ms. G. Zavia Miskin, Director of Marketing and Business Development, alongside senior operational managers.

The FID service, which commenced operations on September 5, 2024, provides weekly liner services, connecting vital ports in China, India, and Djibouti. The westbound route starts in Shanghai and includes key stops at Ningbo, Nansha, Port Klang, Colombo, Nhava Sheva, and Mundra, culminating in Djibouti. The return eastbound journey links Djibouti directly back to Shanghai, streamlining trade across these critical regions.

In a statement from SeaLead, the company outlined the strategic advantages of the FID service. By providing direct connections between China, India, and Djibouti, the service is set to reduce transit times and boost trade efficiency across major global trade routes, especially with the inclusion of Colombo as a key hub port.

Mr. Prabath Malavige, Managing Director of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority, commented on the mutual benefits of the collaboration, emphasizing the vital role of the Port of Colombo in the global supply chain. “This partnership with SeaLead aligns with our ongoing commitment to strengthen Colombo’s status as a premier maritime hub in the region. The FID service will not only enhance trade connectivity but also solidify the Port of Colombo’s strategic importance in facilitating efficient global shipping operations.”

The introduction of the FID service reinforces SeaLead’s commitment to expanding its network, while also positioning Colombo as a critical player in the shipping and maritime industry for years to come.