As a precautionary measure, it has been decided to use Gate Number 02 for the entry of all wharf clerks arriving at the Hambantota International Port to clear vehicles. Vehicles that have been cleared will also leave through Gate Number 02. This measure will come into effect from the 27th April 2020.

We instruct that everyone kindly follow these instructions.

We would like to request that all our stakeholders follow instructions that were previously communicated when processing paperwork for vehicle clearance. It is important that stipulated instructions are followed to ensure the process runs efficiently and smoothly.

We regret to inform you that we have observed wharf clerks and other parties ignoring the instructions, by gathering unnecessarily and parking their vehicles on route, between the Mirijjawila Junction and the port.

Please understand that if any person disregards or ignores the said instructions, they will not be permitted entrance the port.

As informed previously, HIPG has granted a demurrage free period of 45 days, with effect on the 16th of March 2020 until 30th April 2020, for the clearance of local vehicle/HH imports.

When taking this decision we considered all concerns and issues raised by consignees, importers and wharf clerks and the Sri Lanka Government’s decision to facilitate and expedite the cargo clearance from all ports. The Government has also ensured that all relevant Government Departments are operational to facilitate the clearance.

However, we note with regret that only less than 150 vehicles out of approximately 6000 vehicles has been cleared to date.

Please be advised that the demurrage free period granted until 30th April 2020 will not be extended under any circumstances.

In order to ensure the health and safety of the Wharf Clerks, the people of the area and that the cargo clearance process is completed with utmost convenience and efficiency the following procedure has been put in place.

  • Directives by the Sri Lanka Police:
    • The Wharf Clerks arriving at the port to clear vehicle cargo must NOT stop their vehicle between Mirijjawila and the Hambantota port entrance, and should directly drive into the port. This is applicable on returning after the vehicle has been cleared too.
    • Any personal in the vehicles should NOT leave the vehicle at any point between Mirijjawila and the port.
    • Any personal in the vehicles must NOT enter any shops or restaurants in proximity to the temple area outside the port gate.
  • Directives by the Hambantota International Port:
    • All personal arriving to clear vehicle cargo must wear facemasks and gloves.
    • All vehicles must be parked adjacent to the entrance to the Hambantota Maritime Center (Administration Building), towards the “Nerabuma” area.
    • Once the clearing agents and drivers enter the port, the person clearing the vehicle will be escorted to the disinfection cubicle. After which, they will be cleared to conduct the required formalities for clearing vehicles as per the arrangements made by the Operations Department.
    • Please obtain details of the Customs and Operations procedure from Mr. Pinto on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0764077606.