DHL Global Forwarding Sri Lanka (DHL) has moved to consolidate its operations and facilities in Colombo into a 225,000-square-foot logistics compound.

Dubbed the DHL Logistics Hub, the compound comprises seven warehouses and the logistics company's local head office, and is strategically located just six kilometres from the Colombo Sea Port and 30 kilometres from the Bandaranaike International Airport.

Sri Lanka is well plugged into the global economy, and many international businesses with manufacturing bases in the country utilize its geographic location - strong connectivity to Europe and the Middle East - and the well-educated workforce to their economic advantage.

DHL brings together all services to support the import and export of goods in and out of Sri Lanka at the logistics hub in a move that demonstrates strategic investment and commitment to the long-term potential and resilience of the Sri Lankan economy.

"DHL has operated in Sri Lanka since 1980 and closely partnered with our customers through the many years of economic, social and political changes. We are optimistic for the future of Sri Lanka, and are proud to continue strategic investment in the country to facilitate trade," says Fabian Rybka, cluster head, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, DHL Global Forwarding Asia-Pacific.

Amidst global trade tensions, Sri Lanka recently urged Chinese manufacturers to consider the country as a production base to tap its preferential duty-free treatment by the US and Europe and reduce tariff pressures.

The consolidation of DHL operations at the logistics park helps provide greater efficiencies for the local operations. Within the compound, the company runs warehousing and transportation for fast-moving consumer goods, life sciences and healthcare, fashion and retail sectors.

DHL will also continue to provide air and ocean freight services, customs clearance and the host of value-added services, such as labelling, bundling and promotional packaging for customers.