Shipping Minister says yet to take final call on liberalization
Ports, Shipping and Southern Development Minister Sagala Ratnayake yesterday told reporters in Colombo that he has not taken a final call on the proposed liberalization path for the country’s shipping industry. Ratnayake said it should be done in a matter that does not adversely affect local businesses.
“Liberalization is essentially a good thing. But I am also of the strong belief that it should not make a negative impact on local industries. As the minister, I also have a responsibility to protect the local industry. It’s all about striking the right balance,” he stressed.
He said this during the launching ceremony of a maritime news website initiated by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) to disseminate up-to-date information on the ports and shipping sector — a move that would strengthen Sri Lanka’s image in the global maritime sphere.
Meanwhile, the minister said a master plan supported by the Asian Development Plan (ADB) would lay a robust foundation for the ports and maritime sector’s development until 2050.
“We had a lengthy meeting yesterday on the master plan and its proposals for every port in the country. It is a comprehensive programme that will serve as a roadmap for the sector’s growth,” he said.
Ratnayaka also said the Oluvil harbour in the Eastern province would be handed over to the Fisheries Ministry to be developed as a fisheries harbour.
He added the ministry understands it was the ideal plan for the Oluvil harbour which had too little prospects as a commercial port.
“We are also in the process of deciding our course of action on the much-talked-about Eastern Container Terminal (ECT) project. I have requested the Ministry Secretary and the SLPA to present their observations on the matter.
“They will have to evaluate whether it is financially-viable for the SLPA to invest in the ECT project or it should partner with an external party. Based on their recommendation, I will discuss the matter with the President, Prime Minister and the Cabinet,” the minister explained.
Commenting on India’s involvement on the Kankesanthurai port development project, Ratnayaka said the matter was still under discussion.
“India will definitely support us on the ports and maritime sector. But, the level of their involvement is still being discussed. I think the Prime Ministers of India and Sri Lanka have discussed the matter at a very high level. I am still not aware of any final agreement.”