President reviews fisheries projects, priorities for 2027 Budget

Thursday, 23 July 2026 00:06 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake

Discussions focus on boosting fish production, exports, food security and fishermen’s livelihoods
Evaluates Myliddy, Gandara, Rekawa and Karainagar infrastructure projects
Assesses progress of post-Cyclone Ditwah fisheries rehabilitation and
Rs. 189 m assistance program for affected communities
Funding needs for fisheries research and development projects also considered

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake this week eviewed the implementation of projects funded under the 2026 Budget for the Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources Ministry and discussed priorities for next year’s Budget, with a focus on strengthening fisheries infrastructure, increasing production and supporting fishing communities.

The discussion, held at the Presidential Secretariat, examined the progress of recurrent and capital expenditure undertaken this year by institutions operating under the Ministry, as part of the Government’s preparations for the 2027 Budget.

The review covered the performance of the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DFAR), National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA), National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Ceylon Fishery Harbours Corporation (CFHC), Ceylon Fisheries Corporation (CFC), Cey-Nor Foundation Ltd., and the Central Fish Market Complex.

Extensive discussions were held on programs aimed at increasing fish production and exports, ensuring an adequate supply of fish to meet the country’s nutritional requirements and improving the livelihoods of fishing communities, while also outlining priorities for 2027.

The President also reviewed the progress of several key infrastructure projects, including the Myliddy Fishery Harbour Development Project, development work at Gandara Fishery Harbour, the construction of the Rekawa Fishery Anchorage, and the modernisation and rehabilitation of the Karainagar Boat Yard.

The meeting further assessed the progress of research and development initiatives undertaken by the Ministry and considered funding requirements for these programmes under the 2027 Budget.

Attention was also given to the reconstruction of fishery harbours damaged by Cyclone Ditwah and ongoing efforts to restore the livelihoods of affected fishing communities.

The President reviewed the implementation of a Rs. 189 million program to provide boats, fishing nets and other equipment to fishermen affected by the disaster, with the aim of accelerating the recovery of the fisheries sector.

The discussion also examined progress under the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ initiative to recycle decommissioned fishing boats and other fibreglass waste, supporting environmental sustainability within the fisheries industry.