State Minister of Finance and Omani investors visit Hambantota Port
The State Minister of Finance, Capital Markets and State Enterprise Reforms, Ajith Nivard Cabraal visited the Hambantota International Port (HIP) on 21st July. The minister was accompanied by the Governor and Deputy Governor of CBSL, Chairman-BOI, Chairman-UDA and a delegation of Omani investors.
The main objective of the visit was to look for possible investment opportunities in Hambantota, and the delegation was briefed on the port and related services. Facilities and benefits available to investors who partner HIPG in the industrial zone were also discussed. The delegation was informed of the proactive efforts made by HIPG overseas to drive investment promotion, and the company’s close cooperation with the government authorities in expediting the facilitation of FDI projects.
The industrial development that has taken place thus far and the total investment HIPG has generated was also discussed. With regard to commencement of container operations the delegation was informed it was in the pipeline, and steps were taken to purchase the necessary equipment. The BOI Chairman corroborated that HIPG container operations would commence in the last quarter of 2022. In line with the latest concept, “HIPG speed” introduced in the park, several projects have already reached the construction stage. The plug and play ‘Park in park’ manufacturing facility to be set up by the Shenzhen Xinji Group within the industrial zone began clearing and leveling work just 20 days after the signing of the agreement; The Tire Manufacturing Project which is an investment of 300 million USD is nearing completion of leveling and clearing work.
The BOI also discussed development plans for the BOI Pharma zone and the Mirijjawila zone and the infrastructure facilities that will be available to investors, including the value addition of HIP services that would be available to them.
The Minister and his entourage and the Omani delegation also toured the Magam Ruhunupura International Convention Centre (MRICC), Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, Siyambalanduwa Solar Park and the Mirijjawila Industrial Zone, prior to calling at the port.