February 22, 2013

Sri Lanka sees record earnings in fish exports during 2012

Sri Lanka has witnessed record earnings of US$16,232 through fish exports in 2012, according to Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Minister, Dr Rajitha Senaratne.

The minister at a special discussion at the ministry said compared to the figure in 2011, this was an increase of 21%.

Dr Senaratne said there is a notable decrease in the import of fish products during the last few years.

"The figure which was 80,013 tonnes in 2010 decreased to 71,413 tonnes last year which amounted to a 13% drop," he said.

The minister said the ministry is looking forward to the local production of dried fish and Maldive fish and encourages the setting up of fish canning factories.