Information Gaps and Offshore Fishery in Sri Lanka

Offshore fishery in Sri Lanka is one of the most potential resources that can be developed to meet the future demands. To accomplish this, technology and information have a major role to play with rapid technology advancements and the competition in the fishery. The investigation was identified the technology and information gaps to enhance the economic efficiency in terms of new technologies, fleet developments, navigation, gear technology, fishing methods, fishing technology, post-harvest technologies and marketing value chain. Necessary data and information had been collected from a questionnaire and 30 vessels (25%) of monthly mean landings of Negombo fishery harbor. Various aspects of the technology and information have been analyzed to understand the status of the offshore fishery sector to find the appropriate solutions to meet the gaps. Major issue is the lack of knowledge and skills in operating the available equipment. Most of fishers (97%) do not have adequate knowledge on modern technologies available in the industry or the skills to apply them to get their maximum use. Therefore, fleet development program is recommended to be initiated to use new technology.

Autorentext

Ms. Pearl Wijesekara has obtained a basic degree and two postgraduate qualifications with a Higher National Diploma in the several fields in Sri Lanka. Also she is the author of several publications published in Sri Lanka and has fifteen years of experience in the academic field in professional Universities in Sri Lanka.