Ceylon Association of Shipping Agents conducts its 58th Annual General Meeting

From left: CASA Treasurer Mushin Kitchilan, Vice Chairman Janesh Ratnadasa, Ports, Shipping and Aviation Ministry Secretary K.D.S. Ruwanchandra, CASA Chairman M.I.S. Sabar, Chief Guest Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala De Silva, SLPA Additional Managing Director (Administration and Human Recourse Management ) Nalin Aponso and CASA Secretary General Ralph Anandappa - Pix by Upul Abayasekara

• Re-elected Chairman Shano Sabar emphasises importance of digitalisation saying time for action is now
• Stresses implementation of a Port Community System and a National Single Window System crucial to streamline processes, eliminate paperwork, and enhance efficiency
• CASA urges creation of a single unified Maritime Authority to streamline decision-making and propel the industry forward

CASA Chairman M.I.S. Sabar

Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala De Silva​

The Ceylon Association of Shipping Agents (CASA), the voice of the Shipping industry and the apex body that represents shipping in Sri Lanka, tracing its roots back to 1944, held its 58th Annual General Meeting on 12 July at The Taj Samudra Colombo amidst a large and representative gathering of over 650 participants. 

Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala De Silva graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Ports, Shipping and Aviation Ministry Secretary K.D.S. Ruwanchandra, Sri Lanka Ports Authority Additional Managing Director – Administration and HRM Nalin Aponso, were among the Guests of honour.

Hayleys Advantis Ltd. Deputy Managing Director Shano Sabar was re-elected as Chairman of CASA for the year 2024/2025. Asha Shipping Ltd. Executive Vice President Janesh Ratnadasa and Hemas Maritime Ltd. Director Mushin Kitchilan were re-elected as Vice Chairman and Treasurer respectively.

The Executive Committee elected for the period 2024/2025 comprises: Aitken Spence Shipping Ltd., Ceyline Agencies Ltd., Lanka Shipping and Logistics Ltd., Malship (Ceylon) Ltd., McLarens Shipping Ltd., Marine international Agencies Ltd., Penguin Shipping Enterprises Ltd., Prudential Shipping Lines Ltd. and Setmil United Cargo Ltd. 

Chairman’s speech 

During the acceptance speech CASA Chairman Shano Sabar went on to touch on some important topics, some of the areas covered were CASA’s commitment to communication remained unwavering. CASA’s esteemed magazine, “Bridge”, served as a valuable resource, keeping members informed with industry news, insightful articles, and expert commentaries. The E-Ship schedules ensured the timely flow of vital information for operational efficiency. Informative articles in the media broadened public understanding of the industry’s complexities and its significant contribution to the Sri Lankan economy.

Furthermore, he went onto say that CASA takes immense pride in supporting YoungShip, a dynamic group with over 300 members who are shaping the future of the industry. Their focus on collaboration and engagement with other industry sectors and authorities ensures a well-rounded approach to maritime development. CASA is delighted that the Global Premier of the YoungShip Global Leadership Summit 2024 will be conducted in Sri Lanka, a testament to YoungShip’s growing influence and ambition. This summit will provide a platform for young maritime professionals from around the world to connect, share ideas, and shape the future of the industry. CASA is incredibly proud to support YoungShip in hosting this prestigious event.

Sabar further went on to emphasise on the importance of digitalisation calling the time for action is now. CASA strongly advocates for industry-wide digitalisation, a move long overdue. The implementation of a Port Community System and a National Single Window System is crucial to streamline processes, eliminate paperwork, and enhance efficiency. Imagine the time saved and the resources freed up when shipping agents no longer have to manually submit manifests, seek permissions, and approvals. CASA commends the Ports and Shipping Minister for fast-tracking the installation of these systems and urge swift implementation.

Standardisation of procedures across all authorities is equally important. Customs clearances, manifest submissions, penalties – all these processes should be standardised for transparency and ease of operation. CASA has already taken the lead by drafting Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and we urge the Shipping Ministry to ensure their consistent implementation across all stakeholders.

Moving on Sabar, stressed on Colombo’s strategic expansion projects, the East Container Terminal (ECT) and the Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT), positions it to become a leading transhipment hub for the Indian subcontinent. The projected increase in Colombo’s capacity to 15 million TEUs within the next three years is a testament to Sri Lanka’s ambitious vision. Furthermore, Colombo’s 2050 plan promises a world-class maritime hub with cutting-edge technologies and a robust logistics network, ensuring its continued competitiveness in the global maritime trade landscape.

Sri Lanka’s skilled seafarers are a valuable national asset, contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings. Promoting seafaring as a career option and introducing seafaring training in schools are crucial steps to capitalise on this advantage.

Finally, Sabar touched on the fragmented nature of the industry, with operations under multiple ministries, hindering progress. CASA urges the creation of a single, unified Maritime Authority to streamline decision-making and propel the industry forward. And finally ended his speech by congratulating the incoming office bearers and urging everyone to extend their unwavering support and together, ensuring CASA’s continued leadership in shaping a bright future for the Sri Lankan maritime industry.

Sponsors 

“We would also like to thank our sponsors of the evening, McLarens Holdings Ltd., CWT Globelink Colombo Ltd. /FTL Colombo Ltd. and Hayleys Advantis Ltd. the Platinum sponsors. Ceyline Group the Gold sponsors. Evergreen Shipping Lines Lanka Ltd., Colombo Logistics Ltd. and Unifeeder Lanka Ltd., our Silver sponsors along with our other sponsors Colombo International Container Terminals Ltd., Colombo West International Terminals Ltd., South Asia Gateway Terminals Ltd., Sea Trade Agencies Ltd., Lanka Shipping and Logistics Ltd., Clarion Shipping Ltd. and Hamka Shipping Ltd.”

Newly appointed CASA Executive Committee