The state‑owned Cey‑Nor institution has marked a major export milestone with the official handover of a 55‑foot fishing vessel “CAPTAIN C” valued at USD 234,000 to Mauritius.
The ceremony, held at the Cey‑Nor boatyard in Mattakkuliya, was presided over by Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources Ramalingam Chandraseker.
The vessel, equipped with a fish storage capacity of 29 cubic meters and a fuel capacity of 12,500 liters, was formally handed to Ramesh Chuttoo, Chairman of the Captain C Adventure Offshore Fishing Co‑operative Society of Mauritius.
Addressing the occasion, Minister Ramalingam Chandraseker said the achievement demonstrates that state‑owned institutions can be profitable through effective management and commitment.
He noted that Cey‑Nor, once proposed for closure or privatization, is now completing international orders and gaining global recognition.
He added that Norway has agreed to provide technical support, while his upcoming visit to Japan is expected to secure modernization technology.
Discussions are also underway to establish a Cey‑Nor boatyard in Mauritius, which he described as a significant achievement for both the Ministry and the country.
The Minister further revealed that Cey‑Nor has been entrusted with producing a new vessel worth Rs. 150 million aimed at boosting tourism in the Northern Province.
Cey‑Nor Chairman Vasantha Mannapperuma highlighted that since 1967, the institution has produced over 20,000 vessels, making it Sri Lanka’s leader in boat‑building.
He said the current Government’s international recognition has positioned Cey‑Nor to expand exports to destinations such as Seychelles and Madagascar, generating valuable foreign exchange. (Newswire)