Maritime trade serves as a cornerstone of the global economy, experiencing significant growth from the mid-20th century to the early 21st century. This growth is attributed to advancements in technology within seaborne trade, the emergence of container shipping, the introduction of mega ships and alternative fuels, and the establishment of world-class ports.

Situated strategically in the heart of the Indian Ocean, approximately 20 nautical miles off the traditional East-West maritime trade route, which witnesses over 60,000 ships annually, Sri Lanka has emerged as a pivotal player in the maritime and aviation sectors.