By: Staff Writer
Colombo (LNW): A Chinese delegation led by Fujian Province Aquatic Products Wholesale Industry Association explores potential investments in Sri Lanka›s burgeoning fisheries sector.
Chairman of the association Yushu Huang called on Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena at the Parliament complex,and held discussions on ways and means to enter into Sri Lanka fisheries sector in a joint partnership.
He expressed keen interest in establishing a state-of-the-art fish processing facility close to coastal harbours dedicated to the processing and export of high-quality fish products.
Huang emphasised their association›s status as the leading exporter of fish production in China during the meeting on Wednesday (6).
Secretary Huang Jincheng provided further insights into the ambitious project, assuring the utilisation of cutting-edge technology, including the deployment of modern multi-day fishing vessels for sustainable fishing practices, state-of-the-art methods for fish processing, and adherence to the highest industry standards.
Sri Lanka is bracing to re-enter the $ 15 billion Chinese seafood market following a resolution of issues connected to mandatory health certification.
The General Administration Customs of China (GACC) recently approved the amended health certificate, thereby enabling the import of fisheries and aquatic products from Sri Lanka.
With the involvement of the Export Development Board (EDB) Department of Fisheries and the Sri Lanka Embassy in China, the certificate was upgraded to meet the quarantine requirements of the GACC – Import and Export Food Safety Bureau.
Prime Minister Gunawardena commended the potential for substantial investments in fish processing and exports.
He underscored that this opportunity transcends borders, extending not only to China, but also to key foreign markets in Europe and North America. The collaboration holds promise for mutually beneficial economic growth.
The Prime Minister urged the Fujian Province Aquatic Products Wholesale Industry Association to lend their expertise to the Government›s ongoing initiative aimed at developing small fishing harbours across Sri Lanka.
The Chinese delegation readily agreed to this request, with a commitment to foster sustainable growth in the sector.
In response, Minister of State for Fisheries Piyal Nishantha expressed willingness to provide the necessary facilities and support for the establishment of the proposed fish processing factory.
He was optimistic of the positive impact this venture could have on the local economy and broader industry.
State Minister Anuradha Jayaratne, with representatives from prominent Chinese companies, including Zubu Huang of Wuxi Kaushi Foods Company, Xinxing Huang of Beijing Catering Management, and Dongsheng Chen of Ocean Times International Company, participated in the discussions.
