By: Staff Writer
January 20, Colombo (LNW): The Cabinet of Ministers has granted formal approval for the implementation of Sri Lanka’s updated National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy (NFAP), marking a significant milestone in the sustainable management and modernization of the country’s fisheries sector. The long-anticipated approval comes after extensive revisions to align the policy with the government’s broader economic vision, Vistas of Prosperity and Splendour.
Although the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy has undergone several updates over the years to reflect changing sectoral needs, it had not previously received Cabinet endorsement. Under the current administration, the policy was comprehensively redrafted to ensure consistency with national development priorities, investment goals, and environmental sustainability commitments.
Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, speaking at the weekly post-Cabinet media briefing on Tuesday, stated that recommendations from the Department of National Planning were incorporated into the revised policy framework. He noted that Cabinet approval was granted not only for implementation but also for integrating the policy with other relevant national strategies to ensure a coordinated approach to sector development.
The updated policy places strong emphasis on sustainable development, promoting eco-friendly fishing and aquaculture practices while safeguarding aquatic ecosystems. It seeks to balance ecological conservation with economic growth by encouraging responsible resource use, minimizing environmental degradation, and strengthening regulatory oversight.
Economic advancement is another central pillar of the policy. Measures are outlined to increase fish production sustainably, modernize post-harvest handling, and improve product quality to meet international standards such as those required by the European Union. These improvements are expected to enhance Sri Lanka’s competitiveness in global seafood markets while attracting local and foreign investment.
Social upliftment of fishing communities is also a key focus. The policy aims to ensure equitable distribution of benefits across the sector, reduce poverty among fishers, improve living conditions, and expand social protection mechanisms. Job creation, skills development, and improved safety standards aligned with International Labour Organization guidelines form part of the broader modernization agenda.
The policy framework builds upon existing legal and regulatory instruments, including the Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Act and various sectoral regulations and gazette notifications governing landing, handling, and processing of fish. It also complements Sri Lanka’s National Plans of Action, including initiatives to combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated fishing.
With Cabinet approval now secured, the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy is expected to provide a stable, transparent, and investor-friendly framework for long-term growth. Authorities believe its implementation will strengthen food security, protect marine resources, and enhance the livelihoods of thousands dependent on the fisheries and aquaculture sector.
