Srilanka, Sept. 6 -- Azalea Leader berthed at HIP Hambantota, Sri Lanka, August 2026: NYK's Azalea Leader, a new-generation LNG dual-fuel Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC), made its maiden call at Hambantota International Port (HIP) recently, marking another significant development in the port's growing role as a regional automotive transhipment gateway.

Built in 2026 and sailing under the Liberian flag, the nearly 200-metre Azalea Leader arrived at HIP from Singapore, carrying 4,810 vehicles for transhipment and another 47 units for local discharge. The vessel has a maximum carrying capacity of 7,000 units and is among the latest generation of vehicle carriers entering service globally.

NYK operates regular services connecting Singapo...