November 23, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s flagship aquatic exhibition, Aqua Planet 2025, opened on November 21 at the Lotus Tower, presenting a wide array of fisheries products, aquaculture technology, ornamental species, water plants and industry innovations.
Organised by the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Marine Resources, the event is being held under the theme “A Prosperous Tomorrow through Water Resources” and will run until 23 November.
Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya, addressing the gathering at the inauguration, stressed the importance of fresh thinking and technological progress in the aquatic sector. She remarked that Sri Lanka must position itself more competitively in international markets by nurturing advanced aquaculture practices and promoting high-value seafood products.
The exhibition, she said, fits neatly within the government’s policy blueprint, “A Prosperous Country – A Beautiful Life,” which highlights sustainable resource use and export-led growth.
Dr Amarasuriya also drew attention to the government’s continued backing for fishing communities and small-scale producers. She referenced the 2026 budget allocations that strengthen the country’s Blue Economy strategy, including significant investments in port facilities, harbour upgrades, fishermen’s safety gear, and advanced satellite technology for mapping fishing zones. Additional funding is earmarked for aquaculture development centres and modern equipment to increase productivity and resilience in the sector.
During the ceremony, the Prime Minister awarded newly introduced pension benefits to members of the fishing community, while also releasing a commemorative stamp and first-day cover marking the significance of Aqua Planet 2025.
Fisheries Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekaran noted that the exhibition forms a key part of broader plans to rejuvenate the struggling fisheries industry and heighten public appreciation of Sri Lanka’s maritime wealth. By encouraging collaboration across communities and industry stakeholders, he said, the government hopes to boost export revenues and promote sustainable growth.
The event drew participation from several deputy ministers, parliamentarians, ministry officials, diplomatic envoys and representatives from coastal communities, reflecting the wide interest in strengthening the country’s marine-based economy.
