The Container Transport Owners Association has announced that container transport rates will rise by 20% from midnight today (22nd) due to the recent increase in fuel prices, according to Sri Lanka Latest News.
The association’s chairman, Sanath Manjula, stated that the decision aims to sustain the import and export industry under the current challenging circumstances.
He added that the decision was made by the executive committee representing all associations linked to the Colombo Port, and that all relevant parties are currently being informed about the rate hike.
Commenting further, Mr. Manjula said:
“It is not possible to continue the import-export container transport service without increasing this price because a serious crisis has already arisen due to delays in clearing imported goods. We urge the government to take immediate steps to resolve this clearance delay, as it leads to additional fees and fuel wastage caused by long queues.”
Inam Kafur, Secretary of the Lanka Freight Transport Services Association, also highlighted that container transport rates must be increased in line with rising fuel prices.
He explained that the container clearance process takes at least 4-5 days, during which a delay fee of Rs. 15,000 per day is incurred. With rising fuel costs, these delay fees are expected to increase further.
Mr. Kafur elaborated:
“A container transport vehicle typically charges a rental of Rs. 25,000 for deliveries around Colombo. With delays, an additional late fee of Rs. 15,000 per lorry is applied, which can multiply up to Rs. 75,000. Along with the standard Rs. 25,000 rental, and with diesel prices having increased by 30%, the total cost could effectively increase by around 400%. Since container clearance takes 4-5 days, vehicle owners risk incurring significant losses. As we approach the holiday season, it is crucial to clear containers quickly to ensure that goods reach the public without unnecessary delays.”
