Beruwala Boat Launching Ramp a milestone for boat-building industry: CMISL

Minister Sunil Handunnetti 

The inauguration of the Boat Launching Ramp in Beruwala on 11 June 2026 marks a significant milestone in the development of Sri Lanka’s boat-building industry.

Established by the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, the facility addresses a long-standing industry requirement that was consistently advocated by the Chamber of Marine Industries of Sri Lanka (CMISL). Its completion demonstrates the value of effective public-private collaboration in supporting industrial development and responding to industry needs.

Beruwala has long been recognised as one of Sri Lanka’s leading boat-building hubs. The area is home to a large concentration of boat manufacturers, repair yards, service providers, and skilled craftsmen who have played a vital role in the growth of the country’s boat-building sector. However, the absence of a dedicated boat launching facility created operational challenges, resulting in higher costs, logistical constraints, and delays for manufacturers.

Recognising this need, CMISL actively advocated for the establishment of a dedicated launching ramp in Beruwala. Through continuous engagement with government authorities, policymakers, and industry stakeholders, the Chamber highlighted the importance of this infrastructure in supporting local manufacturers, strengthening exports, improving industry services, and creating employment opportunities. Over several years, CMISL ensured that this requirement remained a priority on the national development agenda.

Responding positively to these industry requirements, the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development played a key role in transforming this vision into reality. The successful completion of the Beruwala Boat Launching Ramp reflects the Ministry’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s manufacturing and export-oriented sectors while fostering the continued growth of the boat-building industry.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunnetti, Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources Deputy Minister Rathna Gamage, senior officials of the Ministry; representatives of the Ceylon Fisheries Corporation (CFC) and the Ceylon Fishery Harbours Corporation (CFHC); Members of Parliament representing Beruwala and Galle; the Mayor; representatives of CMISL; industry leaders; boat manufacturers; and other stakeholders. Their presence reflected a shared commitment to advancing Sri Lanka’s boat-building industry and supporting initiatives that contribute to national economic development.

The new facility is expected to provide substantial benefits to the industry by offering a safe, efficient, and reliable mechanism for launching vessels. It will support the launching of fishing vessels, passenger boats, leisure craft, catamarans, and other specialised vessels, enabling manufacturers to better serve both domestic and international markets while reducing operational costs and improving productivity.

In addition, the launching ramp is expected to strengthen Sri Lanka’s export potential and support the growth of ship and boat repair services. Improved infrastructure will enhance the competitiveness of local manufacturers, create employment opportunities, and further establish Beruwala as a key boat-building industry cluster.

As the apex body representing Sri Lanka’s marine industry, CMISL continues to play a leading role in promoting the sustainable growth of the sector. Sri Lanka currently has approximately 68 boat manufacturers, yet only around 10 companies are actively engaged in exports. Recognising the significant untapped potential within the industry, CMISL is focused on encouraging and supporting more manufacturers to enter international markets by improving industry capabilities, enhancing quality standards, and creating greater awareness of export opportunities.

A key component of this effort has been the Chamber’s collaboration with the Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI) to establish standards for the boating industry. CMISL extends its appreciation to SLSI Director General Dr. Siddika Senarathna, for her leadership and commitment in successfully completing these standards, which will contribute significantly to improving quality, safety, and international competitiveness across the sector.

CMISL is also actively promoting the “Grow Boat Manufacturing” initiative, aimed at identifying and expanding opportunities for local boat manufacturers within the domestic market while preparing the industry for increased export participation in the future. The Chamber successfully organised Sri Lanka’s 9th edition of The Boat and Marine Show Sri Lanka in January 2026, which showcased the capabilities of local manufacturers and highlighted the sector’s growth potential.

Looking ahead, CMISL, together with the Export Development Board (EDB) and the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, plans to organise a symposium for boat manufacturers to raise awareness of industry standards, certification requirements, international market expectations, and strategies for becoming globally competitive export-oriented boat builders.

CMISL also expressed its sincere gratitude to Minister Handunnetti,  Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Secretary J.M. Thilaka Jayasundara; Additional Secretary Jayamni; former Additional Secretary Chamnida Pathiraja; and the dedicated officials of the Ministry for their commitment and support in making the Beruwala Boat Launching Ramp a reality.