Two senior U.S. maritime officials will visit Sri Lanka from September 6 to 10 to discuss maritime trade, investment and shipping links across the Indo-Pacific.
U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) Chairman Laura DiBella and Commissioner Robert J. Harvey will meet senior government and maritime leaders during the visit.
The visit will focus on shipping networks that connect American businesses and consumers with markets across the Indo-Pacific.
U.S. Ambassador Eric Meyer said Colombo’s role in regional shipping makes it an important part of these trade networks.
“Over 80 percent of the containers moving through Colombo continue on to destinations around the world,” he said.
He said this highlights the port’s role in Indian Ocean shipping.
Colombo’s role in regional shipping
The visit comes as Colombo prepares for the 8th Colombo International Maritime and Logistics Conference.
Chairman DiBella will deliver remarks at the conference. Commissioner Harvey will also take part as a panelist.
Ambassador Meyer said the visit creates an opportunity to deepen cooperation with the people and institutions supporting maritime trade.
He said secure and efficient shipping can create opportunities for American businesses while supporting Colombo’s position as a regional hub.
The visit will also cover investment and shipping networks that support trade between the United States and Indo-Pacific markets.
U.S. maritime agency focuses on shipping
The FMC is an independent U.S. federal agency established in 1961.
It regulates the U.S. international ocean transportation system. Its work includes promoting a competitive and reliable shipping network and protecting the American public from unfair or deceptive practices in the industry.
DiBella has led the Commission since January 2026 after being nominated by President Donald J. Trump.
Harvey joined the Commission on June 1, 2026, following his nomination by Trump.
The visit places further attention on Colombo’s role in international shipping at a time when the U.S. is seeking closer cooperation across Indo-Pacific trade networks.
For Colombo, stronger maritime ties with the U.S. could support wider links between shipping, trade and investment in the region.
Bilateral Discussions Diplomatic Relations Ports & Shipping
Last modified: September 4, 2026
