Nearly 40% of Sri Lanka’s annual fish production is lost due to post-harvest wastage, it was revealed during a discussion chaired by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Presidential Secretariat today (27).
According to the President’s Media Division, Sri Lanka’s annual fish production stands at approximately 400,000 metric tonnes, with a significant proportion lost after harvesting.
The issue was highlighted during discussions on the 2027 Budget proposals of the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, where attention was drawn to measures needed to minimise wastage and improve the efficiency of the fisheries sector.
President Dissanayake also instructed officials to prepare comprehensive plans to transform the fisheries industry into a commercially viable sector, while increasing production and improving the incomes of fishing communities.
The discussion also focused on measures to make fish products available to consumers at fair and affordable prices, as part of the government’s efforts to reduce the cost of living.
Attention was drawn to the operations of the Ceylon Fisheries Corporation and the Peliyagoda Central Fish Market Complex, including existing operational challenges and the need for improved infrastructure.
The President also highlighted the importance of introducing modern fishing vessels to strengthen deep-sea fishing, while officials discussed opportunities for private-sector investment in the industry.
Meanwhile, President Dissanayake instructed Finance Ministry officials to develop loan schemes specifically suited to the fisheries sector, taking into account the industry’s unique challenges.
The meeting also examined sustainable coastal infrastructure development, green harbour projects and measures to expand aquaculture in Sri Lanka. (Newswire)
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