2026 Jan 7
Sri Lanka’s shipping industry is entering an exciting new phase with the launch of Kanoo Prudential Shipping, a strategic joint venture between Kanoo Shipping and Prudential Shipping. The partnership brings together global maritime experience and strong local knowledge, with the goal of making shipping operations smoother, smarter and more efficient across the region.
Kanoo Shipping is one of the Middle East’s oldest and most respected maritime brands, with over 115 years of experience. Known as the region’s largest ship service provider, the company operates across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, offering a wide range of ship agency, logistics and marine services.
Prudential Shipping, on the other hand, is a trusted name in Sri Lanka, with more than 28 years of industry experience and a strong reputation for reliable, hands-on service.
By joining forces, Kanoo Prudential Shipping combines the best of both worlds. The joint venture will offer services such as full ship agency representation, port call management, offshore and onshore logistics support, crew change and husbandry services, as well as marine logistics and supply chain solutions.
The focus of the partnership is on consistent service, smooth operations and customer satisfaction. By bringing together two well-established maritime players, Kanoo Prudential Shipping aims to raise the bar for shipping services in Sri Lanka, while supporting the continued growth of the country’s maritime and logistics sector.
John Drinkwater, CEO of Kanoo Shipping, shared that the joint venture is about combining experience and operational strength to deliver practical, customer-focused solutions that meet the evolving needs of global shipping.
Retha Els, Vice President – Finance at Kanoo Shipping, added that combining Kanoo’s global network with Prudential’s local expertise will enable the team to deliver reliable and efficient services.
Rishantha Mendis, Managing Director of Kanoo Prudential Shipping, also highlighted the shared vision behind the partnership, noting that the joint venture brings together two trusted brands committed to delivering greater value and creating new opportunities in the region.
Now fully operational, Kanoo Prudential Shipping is ready to support vessels calling at all major ports in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, marking a positive step forward for the country’s maritime industry.





