A special discussion on resolving issues in Sri Lanka’s ornamental fish production and export sector and advancing the industry was held this week(18) at the Ministry premises under the chairmanship of Deputy Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources Rathna Gamage.

Leading ornamental fish producers and exporters from across the island participated in the meeting, where it was decided to expedite the next steps of the operational plan being implemented through the National Aquatic Resources Development Authority (NAQDA).

During the meeting, Deputy Minister Gamage emphasized that a new transparent import mechanism will be introduced to prevent setbacks caused by previous restrictions. 

Entrepreneurs will be permitted to legally import fish species based on business needs, while revisions to the list of prohibited species will allow stakeholders to present their views before an expert committee.

Attention was also directed toward relief for small‑scale producers affected by Cyclone ‘Ditwah’. 

The Deputy Minister announced that financial assistance of Rs. 75,000 and Rs. 50,000 will be provided promptly to those who suffered losses, offering vital support to farmers struggling even to purchase fish feed.

It was further agreed to hold direct discussions with industry stakeholders every two to three months to continuously monitor progress and resolve issues. (Newswire)

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A special discussion on the potential and challenges of initiating and sustaining the ornamental fish production industry in the Northern and Eastern Provinces was held under the aegis of Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic Resources, and Ocean Resources, Ramalingam Chandraseker, at the Haritha Ornamental Fish Production Farm located in the Padukka area in Colombo.

The event was attended by P.K. Kolitha Kamal Jinadasa, Secretary to the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic Resources, and Ocean Resources, along with entrepreneurs from the ornamental fish sector, industry experts, and several relevant officials.

During the occasion, Minister Ramalingam Chandraseker stated that the ornamental fish production industry could make a significant contribution to Sri Lanka’s economy as an innovative and income-generating sector. He emphasized that there is a high demand for this industry in international markets, and therefore, special attention should be directed toward its development.

Engaging in a cordial dialogue with ornamental fish producers and industry experts, the Minister discussed in detail the current challenges faced by the production and export sectors, the need for new technologies, production standards, and access to international markets.

He further noted that the Northern and Eastern Provinces possess abundant natural and water resources, offering great potential to establish ornamental fish farms in those regions. The government will provide support, training programs, and technical assistance to facilitate this. (Newswire)

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