fishing industry in Sri Lanka

The fisheries sector plays a key role in Sri Lanka's social and economic life. Fish products are an important source of animal protein for the population and the sector contributes about 2 percent to GDP. Exports of fish and fishery products was 13 680 t and valued US$ 94.3 million) in 2004, while imports of fish products (mostly dried and canned) amounted to 67 284 t, valued at US$ 59.4 million. From an economic viewpoint, there is significant scope for increasing the level of contribution from the sector through increased output, exploiting the potential for value addition and import substitution.

The fisheries sector of Sri Lanka consists of three main subsectors, namely coastal; offshore and deep sea; and inland and aquaculture. These three subsectors employ around 250 000 active fishers and another 100 000 in support services. This workforce represents a population of some one million people.

On 26 December 2004, the fisheries sector was severely affected by tsunami tidal waves that hit two-thirds of the coastline of the island. It is estimated that nearly 80 percent of active fishers were affected and more than 75 percent of the fishing fleet was destroyed or damaged by the tsunami. In addition, a large number of small-scale fishing craft and fishing gear were destroyed. Of the 12 fishing harbours, 10 were severely damaged, including breakwaters, shore facilities, buildings, machinery and equipment. In addition, public and private utilities, such as ice plants, landing ports, markets and the homes of the fishing community were destroyed.