MSC Shows Interest for Stake in Hambantota After CMPort Unveils $100M Expansion Plan

On 7 July 2026, the Journal of Commerce reported that Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) had initiated discussions with China Merchants Port (CMPort) to acquire ‘a significant equity stake’ in Hambantota Port. Currently, Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG) is a joint venture between CMPort (85%) and Sri Lanka Port Authority (15%). Previously, in March 2026, CMPort unveiled its plan to invest USD 108 million to expand Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka.

Recently, CMPort signed a contract with Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries (ZPMC) to procure 6 Ship-to-Shore (STS) Cranes, 16 Tyre Gantry Cranes and 40 Yard Tractors. The STS cranes can lift up to 65 tonnes, and the arm will be able to extend up to 72 meters outward, at a maximum height of 55 meters. The dimensions of the crane are designed so that they can handle the largest container ships. After the upgrade, Hambantota Container Terminal will be able to handle up to 2 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent (TEU) annually.

MSC is planning to shift its ships from Colombo to Hambantota. Hambantota is only about ten nautical miles from major sea lines of communication (SLOC), while Colombo requires a longer detour. In particular, the Ingwe service running from Far East to South Africa will call at Hambantota. Moreover, the Colombo Port is nearing capacity and is frequently experiencing delays.

The interest in Hambantota forms part of MSC’s broader strategy to reinforce its position on major maritime trade routes. To that purpose, MSC has also recently invested in Can Gio Port in Vietnam, Vizhinjam Port in India, Allaga Port in Turkey, Barcelona Port in Spain, and has reportedly opened talks with Mauritius for a stake in Port Louis.