Sri Lankan exporters are faced with a shortage of containership space for their shipments to Europe after several shipping lines diverted some of their services to India, an official said in a Lanka Business Online report.

The booming Indian export-import trade has prompted shipping lines to start direct services from Indian ports to Europe, obviating the need for transshipment through Colombo.

Several major lines like Maersk, UASC, K-line and Norasia have shifted some of their services to Nava Sheva, in Mumbai, resulting in a weekly shortage of container slots for cargo from Colombo, estimated at about 600 TEU.

Jayanath Perera, chairman of the Sri Lanka Shipper's Council said the worst hit are exports of garments, tea and coir. Garments are particularly affected, as many exporters have to meet tight deadlines and just-in-time delivery schedules, the report said.

Shippers are reported to be paying up to 75 per cent more to airfreight exports after failing to find space on containerships.

Mr Perera said inefficiencies at Colombo port, reduced export volumes and poor infrastructure like roads may also have contributed to the lines' decision.

He said Sri Lanka needs to increase exports and fast-track the Colombo port expansion project to cater to bigger ships in future to maintain its status as a transshipment hub and remain attractive for shipping lines.