April 30, 2007

Sri Lanka aims to double aquaculture production

Sri Lanka has the potential to double its aquaculture fish production from the present 33,000 tonnes to 74,450 tonnes, according to its National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA).

Chairman NAQDA Munidasa Premachandra said that nearly 275,000 water hectares are available for aquaculture development activities, the country's Sunday Observer reported.

NAQDA has implemented a nationwide programme to encourage aquaculture activities.

Among the programmes it is conducting are eight aquaculture development centres in various parts of the island manned by qualified staff to provide assistance to fish farmers.