SAGT celebrates quarter century of maritime excellence

SAGT Chief Executive Officer Romesh David with the staff who completed 25 years of service

South Asia Gateway Terminals (SAGT), a trailblazer in Sri Lanka’s contemporary port and maritime history, celebrates its silver jubilee this year, marking a quarter of a century of success, growth, and resilience. 

Established in 1999 as the first public-private partnership container terminal operator in the Port of Colombo, SAGT has over the past 25 years, consistently set the benchmark in all aspects, by facilitating global trade to and through the South Asia region with world class operational excellence. 

Since its inception, SAGT has been at the forefront of reshaping container terminal operations in Sri Lanka. The initial years saw the transformation of the historic Queen Elizabeth Quay into a modern, state-of-the-art facility, equipped with advanced technology and infrastructure and growing from that, providing customer-centric solutions to the international container shipping community is deeply ingrained in the company’s ethos, to date.

Sustainable, customer-centred operational excellence with safety at the core, remains the foundation of SAGT’s success. The terminal has consistently delivered high-performance to its customers and stakeholders, earning global recognition through numerous awards for best practices. This commitment to excellence is evident in its highly skilled and motivated staff coupled with investment in advanced IT networks, real-time tracking and monitoring systems, web-based e-port solutions, safety management and ERP systems, all of which ensure that customers receive a reliable and world-class service. In this way, SAGT has played a pivotal role in positioning the Port of Colombo as the primary transhipment hub in the region.

SAGT Chief Operating Officer Upul Jinadasa said: “The journey over the past 25 years has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence. The ability to adapt, innovate, and collaborate with stakeholders has been instrumental in our success. We are proud to have contributed significantly to Sri Lanka’s maritime industry and look forward to continuing this legacy.”

Diversity has also been a crucial element in SAGT’s growth. The terminal’s ownership structure, comprising local and international stakeholders has fostered a culture of inclusivity and collaboration. This diverse partnership has enabled SAGT to leverage global expertise while staying rooted in local values, creating a unique environment that thrives on innovation and shared aspirations. The introduction of policies such as paternity leave, the first and to date only employer to do so within the Port of Colombo, reflects SAGT’s commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace that values the contributions of its human capital.

Sustainability has been another cornerstone of SAGT’s operations, especially in recent years as the global maritime industry moves towards decarbonisation and net zero. The organisation has aligned itself with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 2050 net-zero target and is leading the way in the Port of Colombo, towards reducing its carbon footprint ahead of schedule. Initiatives, such as the hybrid conversion of its Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) cranes, have led to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. In 2023/24 the diesel consumption per RTG move reduced by 23% in comparison to the previous reporting period and the reduction of total emissions over a five-year period has exceeded 36%. 

Adding to this, ongoing projects, such as the feasibility study on implementing green hydrogen technology, the installation of solar energy solutions, retrofitting existing equipment with more energy efficient and green technology, reduction in groundwater withdrawal, promotion of ocean health through partnerships with organisations like the World Ocean Council and the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA), further highlight the Company’s continuing commitment to globally benchmarked, sustainable best practices.

SAGT Chief Executive Officer Romesh David said: “As we celebrate 25 years, our focus on responsible and sustainable business practices has never been stronger. We are proud to lead the way in reducing emissions and promoting greater equity within the Port of Colombo. Our efforts today will ensure a better tomorrow for future generations.”

SAGT’s commitment to sustainable business extends beyond its immediate operations. The terminal has engaged in numerous CSR initiatives, reaching over 1.5 million beneficiaries in vulnerable sections of the community through various programs. The support to restart the national Thriposha free nutritional supplement program and the terminal’s collaboration with the National Vocational Training Institute to offer specialised training programs in Mechatronics aimed at equipping the next generation with the skills needed to thrive in the ports industry, are examples of such initiatives. These initiatives reflect SAGT’s belief in giving back to the community and supporting the broader socio-economic development of Sri Lanka.

SAGT, Sri Lanka’s first Public Private Partnership container terminal commenced operations in 1999 with a vision to be the most trusted Gateway in the Indian Ocean. Built on a foundation of Teamwork, Safety, Trust and Integrity, Customer Centricity & Excellence, SAGT presents the international trading community a competitive best in class service. A pioneer in sustainable terminal operations, SAGT continues to steer course for a sustainable future. Promoting “Ease of doing business” through digitalisation and digitisation is an integral part of SAGT’s DNA. SAGT is a recipient of multiple independent globally recognised “best practice” awards since inception. 

SAGT is a Board of Investment flagship company whose shareholders include – John Keells Holdings, Maersk/APM Terminals, SLPA and Evergreen Marine Corporation.