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.

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
• Promoted seafarer welfare, including immigration reforms, tax incentives, and discussions to enhance Sri Lanka’s status as a maritime flag state
• Customs collaboration: Regular meetings with Sri Lanka Customs have led to improvements like electronic vessel sufferance approvals and automated customs overtime charges and improve manifest reporting processes.
• Email-based manifest submissions for RO-RO vessels. These upgrades streamline port operations and improve turnaround times, making Sri Lanka more competitive.
• Transparent Penalty Framework: CASA has actively advocated for a structured system that distinguishes between genuine clerical errors and deliberate infractions. This helps prevent arbitrary fines and promotes fair treatment of shipping agents.

Stakeholder engagement: CASA actively participated in forums and consultations to shape the blueprint for Sri Lanka’s National Single Window (NSW), alongside other regulatory bodies.

Initiating strategic dialogue with MEPA to Propose Amendments to the Marine Pollution Prevention Act No. 35 of 2008, especially on section 26 – Strict liability on Agents. 

Industry workshops summary

CASA APP – introduced app-based training modules to enhance digital literacy and operational efficiency among its members. These sessions are designed to familiarise users with CASA’s internal applications and digital platforms used in the maritime and logistics sectors.

Workshop on using generative AI tools to be productive in the workplace CASA organised a forward-thinking workshop focused on enhancing workplace productivity through the use of generative AI. Participants were introduced to practical tools and strategies to streamline routine tasks, boost creativity, and improve operational efficiency. The session demonstrated real-world applications of AI in maritime and logistics contexts, promoting digital transformation across industry roles.

Sea transport of dangerous goods – keeping things safe

In recognition of International Maritime Day (26 September), this workshop explored the regulatory and operational challenges in transporting dangerous goods by sea. Discussions emphasised the critical role of shippers in ensuring proper classification, packaging, and declaration of hazardous materials. Participants reviewed recent incidents to highlight compliance failures and reinforced the importance of safety protocols, industry-wide accountability, and continuous improvement in protecting life at sea and the marine environment.

Community engagement and CSR

Annual sports events: 

Successfully hosted the Six-a-Side Softball Cricket Tournament, fostering camaraderie among industry stakeholders.

Bowling tournament – Team-based bowling tournament designed to promote networking, wellness, and friendly competition within the maritime community.

Futsal tournament was a dynamic and well-attended sporting event, bringing together professionals from across Sri Lanka’s maritime and logistics sectors for a day of competitive fun and team spirit.

Healthcare donations: Contributed medical equipment and supplies to regional hospitals as part of CASA’s CSR outreach.

Facilitated a Malaria Awareness Program aimed at educating maritime professionals and surrounding communities on the risks, prevention, and treatment of malaria.

The YoungShip Sri Lanka chapter, under the CASA umbrella, responsible for youth engagement and maritime innovation, spearheaded a range of high-impact programs:

• YoungShip Global Leadership Summit (YGLS 2024)
• Hosted in Colombo with over 300 participants from 25+ countries, the event featured a conference, cultural performances, leadership training, a golf tournament, and site visits to Galle and Port City Colombo.
• Community outreach projects

• Caring Hands Project 4: Donation of educational tools and a printer to the Mullaitivu Center for Kids.

• Women’s health awareness programs conducted in Mathugama and Badowita in collaboration with Arka Initiative and Fems.

• Dockyard visit and educational tours for young professionals.

• Youth engagement and fellowship events

• YoungShip Iftar and Dinner (March 2025)

• Annual Quiz Night with Dominic Kellar (October 2024)

• YoungShip Annual General Meeting and Executive Committee Elections (January 2025, 245 attendees)

• YoungShip Challenge Trophy (Victoria Golf Club, January 2025)

• Christmas Fellowship (December 2024) – Attended by over 100 members

With the 59th AGM scheduled for 25 July 2025 at the Grand Marquee, Taj Samudra, CASA is committed to sustaining its leadership by prioritising infrastructure modernisation, digital transformation, maritime workforce development, and public-private collaboration.

The 59th AGM will not only reflect on past achievements but also mark the beginning of a renewed journey toward enhancing Sri Lanka’s global maritime competitiveness.