January 19, Colombo (LNW): Fisheries Minister Douglas Devananda has directed the temporary suspension of prior approval for the import of canned fish, effective from January 11, aiming to support the local canned fish industry. The decision follows a discussion between the Minister and representatives from the Canned Fish Producers’ Association, where concerns were raised regarding challenges faced by the industry.
The representatives highlighted difficulties in selling local canned fish due to large-scale imports in recent months. They attributed price increases to the imposition of VAT tax on local canned fish from January 1. Despite the local industry’s capacity to meet market demand, the surge in imported canned fish has adversely affected their operations.
The representatives emphasized that imported canned fish is priced lower than locally produced counterparts, jeopardizing the viability of their businesses. In response, Minister Devananda instructed the Fisheries Department Director General to temporarily suspend prior approval for canned fish imports and explore the possibility of imposing additional taxes on previously imported stock.
Furthermore, the Minister directed officials to facilitate the import of fish canning necessities during periods of increased local fish prices. Various issues raised by canned fish producers were addressed during the discussion, and the Minister emphasized the importance of monitoring market prices and ensuring a steady fish supply to prevent inconvenience to consumers. The meeting was attended by Ministry Secretary Kumari Somarathne, Fisheries Department Director General Susantha Kahawaththa, and Additional Secretaries to the Fisheries Ministry Anusha Gokula and Dhammika Ranathunga.
