The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Ministry of Health of Sri Lanka, with support from the Government of Japan, inaugurated a newly constructed Port Health Office at the Port of Colombo, signaling a milestone in strengthening Sri Lanka’s border health security and preparedness for public health emergencies.

The text of the Japanese embassy press release: “The new facility was handed over to the Ministry of Health to strengthen health screening, surveillance and emergency response capacities at the Port of Colombo. In 2025 alone, the Port Health Service granted more than 4,190 Free Pratique clearances and conducted 365 ship sanitation inspections, demonstrating its important role in protecting public health while supporting safe maritime trade.

Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, Minister of Health and Mass Media said: “Today’s inauguration marks an important milestone in Sri Lanka’s health security and national resilience. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to building a healthier, safer and more resilient Sri Lanka, while ensuring that our ports remain prepared to meet the public health challenges of the future.”

The Port Health Office will provide essential border health services to prevent, detect and respond to public health threats at the Port of Colombo. Its functions include inspecting international vessels, issuing Free Pratique and ship sanitation certificates, conducting surveillance and vector control activities, and coordinating emergency public health responses.

Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Anura Karunathilaka, attending the event stated: “The Government is committed to strengthening the Port of Colombo’s position as a leading maritime hub in the Indian Ocean Region. This new Port Health Office enhances our capacity to safely and efficiently manage increasing international maritime traffic while meeting international health standards, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s reputation as a safe, resilient and competitive gateway for global maritime trade.

The Port Health Office was established under “The Project for Strengthening Capacity of Border Control for Responding to Infectious Diseases in Southwest Asia,” implemented by IOM with support from the Government of Japan. In Sri Lanka, the project supports the Port of Colombo and the Bandaranaike International Airport through investments in infrastructure, technology, equipment and capacity building to enhance compliance with the International Health Regulations (2005) and build resilience against future public health threats.

The project also strengthens border health systems through the donation of medical equipment, improved waste management, standard operating procedures and training for frontline personnel. Complementary investments at Bandaranaike International Airport further enhance Sri Lanka’s capacity to facilitate safe, secure and efficient international travel while improving preparedness for future public health emergencies.

Akio Isomata, Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, stated, “Amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, Sri Lanka’s strategic importance as a safe and reliable maritime hub in the Indian Ocean is greater than ever. As the country experiences record growth in tourism and trade, building robust, crisis-resilient border health infrastructure today is indispensable to preventing future disruptions, safeguarding public health, and supporting Sri Lanka’s long-term economic prosperity.”

By strengthening operational efficiency, health security and inter-agency coordination at points of entry, the project contributes to supporting stronger borders, safer mobility and strengthens resilience to infectious disease threats while contributing to the country’s economic recovery.

Kristin Parco, IOM Chief of Mission to Sri Lanka and the Maldives added, “This newly established Port Health Office represents a significant milestone in strengthening the country’s ability to detect, prepare for and respond to public health threats. IOM remains committed to supporting national efforts to strengthen and sustain resilient points of entry, helping to safeguard public health while facilitating safe, orderly and regular migration.”

IOM continues to work closely with the Government of Sri Lanka and partners to strengthen border management and public health systems, supporting resilient and future-ready points of entry that protect people, facilitate safe mobility and strengthen national resilience.”