CASA achieves transformative year of maritime advocacy, innovation and growth

THE Ceylon Association of Shipping Agents (CASA), the apex body representing the shipping agency business in Sri Lanka, will host its 59th Annual General Meeting on Friday 25 July at the Grand Marquee, Taj Samudra, bringing together key stakeholders, policymakers, and maritime professionals to celebrate a year of significant progress, robust advocacy, and impactful industry collaboration.

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The Ceylon Association of Shipping Agents (CASA) has been a driving force in Sri Lanka's maritime sector since 1944, and its initiatives span strategic reforms, industry collaboration, and community engagement. Recognised as the voice of Sri Lanka's shipping industry, CASA continues to drive the advancement of maritime policy, digital innovation, seafarer welfare, youth leadership, and stakeholder engagement.

This AGM will serve not only as a forum for reflection but also as a strategic platform to shape the sector's direction in the year ahead.

Here's a breakdown of some of their most impactful efforts during the year 2024/2025.

Strategic and industry development initiatives

■Digitalisation and automation: CASA has supported the rollout of platforms like ASYHub, enabling seamless transmission of consignment data and reducing manual paperwork.

■Strategic collaboration with the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) - Initiated and supported the implementation of the Port Community System (PCS) and Maritime Single Window, with RFPs issued and digital rollouts planned in phases.

■Advocated improvements in East Container Terminal (ECT) development; secured SLPA commitments for new ARMG and STS crane deployment.

■Addressed challenges in Inter Terminal Transfers (ITT), resulting in SLPA's agreement to deploy AI-based navigation systems and third-party transportation solutions.

■Played a key role in the national Zero Tolerance Policy on anti-corruption, standards in Sri Lanka ports, aiming to boost global competitiveness and transparency; including the installation of scanners, surveillance systems, and establishment of whistleblower channels. to implement anti-corruption standards in Sri Lankan ports, aiming to boost global competitiveness and transparency