Sri Lanka ‘should modernize shipping policy framework’ 

COLOMBO: Sri Lanka should modernize the shipping policy framework to take the country forward considering the needs of all stakeholders and review the role of shipping agents, the top body representing the country’s importers and exporters said in the wake of the latest shipping disaster.

“The government should take appropriate action to involve experts in the industry and main industry bodies in developing such policy soon and successive governments should continue to endorse the policy if we are to succeed in our commercial maritime activities,” Sri Lanka Shipper’s Council representing the country’s exporters and importers said in a report carried by Economy Next.

The X-Press Pearl caught fire sometime after an acid leak was found in a container, the fire went out of control in heavy winds despite foreign tug boats being called to help by the owners.

“If Sri Lanka is to reach its aspiration to become the maritime hub of South Asia using its unique strategic location, the maritime industry needs to upgrade its salvage and other connected services required to support distressed ships that pass by the Island on a daily basis,” the Shippers Council said.

“If not, we become less attractive to the international shipping networks in terms of developing Colombo as a hub port. Sri Lanka should be better prepared to handle such disasters, the body said.

“Of course, the cost of upgrading infrastructure and increasing maintenance cost will drive operational cost escalation but a mechanism should be in place where the importer and exporter will not have to bear these increases finally,

Sri Lanka does not have tug companies, salvors or international shipping companies based in the country and attempts to liberalize the shipping business have been resisted by agents for decades.

“The role of ship agents in Sri Lanka should also be reviewed,” SLSC said.