Sri Lanka Parliament Cuts Presidential Powers in Reform

Sri Lanka Parliament Cuts Presidential Powers in Reform

In a big change for Sri Lanka, the Parliament approved the 21st amendment. This move cuts presidential powers. It marks a move towards more democracy in this South Asian country. This major change got support from all sides, showing the country wants change during a tough financial time. The goal is to change how the government works, fight corruption, and help the economy recover.

People had protested against the former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. This led to his stepping down. It showed people want a government that is open and careful with money. These new changes promise to limit the president’s control. They also aim to make the parliament stronger. These are important steps for political steadiness and fixing the economic problems.

Key Takeaways

  • 179 lawmakers voted for the 21st Amendment, putting limits on the Sri Lankan president’s power.
  • The amendment starts a new way of governing. A constitutional council will now guide presidential choices.
  • With these changes, President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s role comes after Gotabaya Rajapaksa was removed.
  • The 21st Amendment aims for a government that is open, skilled, and responsible. It focuses on getting the economy back on track.
  • Putting a limit on cabinet ministries will make the government run smoother and more effectively.
  • A stronger role for the parliament shows a shift towards a democracy with more control over the executive branch.
  • Important constitutional bodies and councils will enhance expertise, openness, and responsibility in how Sri Lanka is governed.

Sri Lanka’s Parliament Approves 21st Amendment to Curb Presidential Powers

The Sri Lankan Parliament has recently made a big move. They ratified the 21st Amendment to change how their country is governed. This is big news in Sri Lanka, because it aims to take away some of the president’s power. The goal is to make the country’s leadership more democratic.

Rationale Behind the Constitutional Change

Sri Lanka is facing tough economic problems. This situation led to the push for the 21st Amendment. The last amendment gave the president too much power. Now, with this change, they want to make things fairer. They aim to boost the role of Parliament and other independent groups.

The Opposition and Civil Society’s Stance

Not everyone is happy with the new amendment. Some people and groups think it doesn’t do enough to reduce the president’s power. They say it’s a good start. But, the president still has too much control over important areas. This might slow down true democratic reform and the fight against corruption, they believe.

Impact on Governance and Anti-Corruption Safeguards

This amendment is seen as a key step for fighting corruption and improving leadership in Sri Lanka. It aims to make governance more transparent and responsible. It’s also vital for Sri Lanka to get international help, like the support from the IMF. This is needed for the country to recover economically.

Also, according to news on Sri Lankan politics, this change could really shake things up. It pushes the country towards being more democratic. Everyone is watching to see how these reforms turn out, both in Sri Lanka and around the world.

Understanding the Implications of Parliament Amendment Sri Lanka

The recent constitutional amendment in Sri Lanka, known as the 21st Amendment, has made big news. It changes the political landscape a lot. Aimed at reducing the Executive President’s powers and boosting parliamentary authority, it got a large majority in Parliament. This moment is key for Sri Lanka’s politics. The amendment is about balancing government powers and answering calls for better governance.

The 21st Amendment saw great agreement in Parliament, going beyond party lines. To pass, it needed a two-thirds vote from the 225-member house. It got 179 votes in favor. This shows a rare unity in the legislature during a time when people strongly wanted change. It’s a major step in Sri Lanka’s constitutional change.

Event Votes in Favor Votes Against Abstentions Outcome
Initial Vote 179 1 (Sarath Weerasekara) 45 Passed with a two-thirds majority
Second Reading Vote 179 1 0 Amendment Approved
Third Reading Vote 174 0 1 Amendment Enacted

The 21st Amendment has an important feature. It stops people with dual citizenship from running in elections. This is to ensure leaders are fully loyal to the nation. From 1994 to 2015, every presidential candidate promised to end the Executive Presidency. This shows a strong wish for reform. The 21st Amendment follows these efforts, starting with the 19th Amendment in 2015, which also aimed to reduce presidential powers.

Looking at Sri Lanka’s current affairs, there’s a consistent effort to change the constitution. The 21st Amendment’s drafting suggested many reforms. These aimed to spread out executive powers which often got misused. The amendments are part of a push for democratic reform. They aim to strengthen legislative structures and encourage fair governance.

In conclusion, passing the 21st Amendment is a milestone in Sri Lanka’s constitutional changes. It shows major progress towards fair and democratic governance. This legislative change marks a pivotal moment in Sri Lanka’s politics. It might lead to more reforms, moving towards more democratic transparency and accountability.

Sri Lanka Governance Amendment: A Step Toward Democracy?

The Sri Lanka Governance Amendment, also known as the 21st Amendment, marks a key moment for the country. It aims to change the political scene by repealing the 20th Amendment. This gave a lot of power to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Now, the focus is on reducing the president’s power and strengthening democracy.

This comes as the country faces economic and political challenges. People are calling for clearer governance and better checks and balances. By bringing back parts of the 19th Amendment, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe seeks to lessen executive power. However, some worry this doesn’t go far enough in shifting power to promote Democracy Sri Lanka.

The 21st Amendment has been approved by the cabinet to give more power to Parliament and adjust presidential powers. Critics say it doesn’t do enough to limit the President’s power. They argue it lacks strong checks and balances, unlike earlier amendments aimed at reducing government control. Still, this update in Sri Lanka Politics might spark further changes toward a democratic system.

Seylan Bank Records Profit After Tax of LKR 6.59 Billion

Seylan Bank Records Profit After Tax of LKR 6.59 Billion

In an era of significant tax reform measures, Seylan Bank shines brightly in Sri Lanka’s banking world. It announced a Profit After Tax (PAT) of LKR 6,593 million. This amazing performance for the first nine months ending September 30, 2024, shows a growth of 46.65%. This is a big jump from the LKR 4,496 million earned in the same period in 2023.

The bank’s Profit Before Tax (PBT) also saw a big rise, reaching LKR 10,608 million. This is 47.72% more than last year. Even with challenges like a lower Net Interest Margin, Seylan Bank’s financial strength is boosting the economy’s backbone.

Seylan Bank Records Profit After Tax of LKR 6.59 Billion for First Nine Months

As Sri Lanka’s economy starts to recover, there’s hope and forward movement. Seylan Bank leads in stabilizing the economy with a Profit After Tax of LKR 6.59 billion. This success shows their strong commitment and clever strategies in financial matters. Looking forward, Seylan Bank’s efforts could pave the way for more economic recovery and growth in Sri Lanka.

Seylan Bank Records Profit After Tax of LKR 6.59 Billion for First Nine Months

Even with Economic Challenges, Seylan Bank has kept a strong financial stance. It recorded a Profit After Tax leap of 46.65% from the previous year, totaling LKR 6.59 billion. This success shows strength and a path of recovery, helped by reforms and global support to improve the economic situation. You can read more here.

Profit Growth Amidst Economic Challenges

The growth in Seylan Bank Profit signals a hopeful change in finance. Despite economic ups and downs, the bank managed its assets and liabilities well. For more details, visit here. This success is due to Seylan Bank’s strategic moves to overcome tough economic conditions.

Reduction in Net Interest Margin

The tough economy has hit income, notably the Net Interest Margin, which fell by 10.77%. The drop from LKR 30,554 million to LKR 27,262 million shows the struggle to stay profitable with high operation costs and tough interest rates.

Rise in Net Fee Based Income and Impairment Charges

Seylan Bank saw its Net Fee Based Income go up, which helped its non-interest earnings. The bank earned more from charges and fees. At the same time, Impairment Charges went down by 69.14%, showing better credit quality and asset health.

Financial Aspect 2023 (LKR Million) 2024 (LKR Million) % Change
Profit After Tax 4,498 6,593 46.65%
Net Interest Income 30,554 27,262 -10.77%
Net Fee Based Income Data Unspecified Data Unspecified Increases
Impairment Charges 13,447 4,150 -69.14%

Analysis of Seylan Bank’s Financial Performance

A closer look at Seylan Bank shows important findings on its economy. Its Net Interest Income rose by 21.47% reaching LKR 20,468 million in the first half of 2023. Meanwhile, Operating Expenses went up by 25.88%, hitting LKR 9,128 million.

This jump in costs relates to strategies to make the bank more stable and efficient. These efforts paid off with a 71.29% leap in Profit after Tax. The profit reached LKR 2.57 billion, a big step up from last year.

Insight into Net Interest Income and Operating Expenses

Besides, the bank’s growing expenses reflect strong economic actions, following a global pattern. Sri Lanka is expected to see a 4.4% economic due to its industrial and tourism sectors. Seylan Bank’s smart moves helped solidify its market spot.

They focused on making more revenue and smartly handled their expenses. These expenses rose mainly because of higher staff costs and more expensive supplies.

Implications of Increased Taxation and Levies on Profits

Higher taxes have also shaped the bank’s financial strategies. Income Tax expenses tripled to LKR 1,582 million. Alongside, Levies rose as profits increased. Despite these challenges, Seylan Bank has shown a strong financial structure.

Its Profit Before Tax growth is notable. These financial trends highlight the need for ongoing policy changes. The IMF’s recent $2.9 billion support for Sri marks a step towards better stability and growth.

Analysis of Seylan Bank’s Financial Performance

How much did Seylan Bank report in Profit After Tax for the first nine months of 2024?

Seylan Bank announced a Profit After Tax of LKR 6.59 billion for the first nine months up to September 30, 2024.

What was the percentage increase in Seylan Bank’s Profit After Tax compared to the previous year?

The Profit After Tax rose by 46.65% compared to the same period in 2023.

What were the Profit Before Tax (PBT) figures for Seylan Bank during this period?

Profit Before Tax hit LKR 10.61 billion, up 47.72% from the year before.

Did Seylan Bank face any challenges with the Net Interest Margin (NIM)?

Yes, the Net Interest Margin shrank to 5.03% by the third quarter of 2024, from 5.76% in 2023.

How did Seylan Bank’s net fee-based income perform?

Net fee-based income grew by 8.10%, thanks to gains from cards, remittances, and lending services.

What was the magnitude of reduction in impairment charges for Seylan Bank?

Impairment charges fell sharply by 69.14%, down to LKR 4.15 billion.

How did Seylan Bank manage to balance the decrease in Net Interest Income?

They offset the dip in Net Interest Income through smart cost control and diversifying revenues.

What impact did taxation have on Seylan Bank’s financial performance?

Tax expenses rose significantly. Income Tax jumped by 49.51% reaching LKR 4.01 billion, alongside rises in VAT on Financial Services and the Social Security Contribution Levy.

Sri Lanka Now UK’s Second Largest Partner in TNE

Sri Lanka Now UK’s Second Largest Partner in TNE

Sri Lanka Now UK's Second Largest Partner in Transnational Education

In a big step forward, Sri Lanka has passed Malaysia to be the UK’s second-biggest partner in Transnational Education (TNE). Now, it makes up 10% of the UK’s TNE enrollments. This shows a strong education bond between both countries. It also highlights the need for top-notch tertiary education that meets global standards.

Numbers show the growth: From 2020 to 2023, Sri Lankan students in UK TNE programs surged by 50%, reaching nearly 54,000. This growth happened with little help from the UK government. It shows the real value and demand for these educational chances in Sri Lanka. For many students who can’t get into local public universities, TNE is a vital option.

The rise in enrollments is boosting the quality of Sri Lanka’s higher education. TNE ties are crucial for giving students skills and qualifications that match industry needs. Graduates are ready for jobs, not just in Sri Lanka but abroad as well, especially in booming markets like India. This is what the British High Commissioner suggests. As TNE shapes Sri Lanka’s education scene, it plays a bigger role in global education. It also helps prepare the workforce for important sectors.

The Rise of Sri Lanka in Transnational Education

Recent numbers show how Sri Lanka is becoming a big name in transnational education (TNE). It’s creating strong ties with UK universities. In fact, student enrollment in these programs has gone up by 50%. This makes Sri Lanka the UK’s second biggest partner in this area.

The growth isn’t just about numbers. It’s also about the quality and range of programs. These programs come from academic partnerships across borders.

Sri Lanka has climbed in the TNE rankings, now ahead of Malaysia. This is a key milestone in its global partnership efforts. The country has strong agreements and projects. These support higher education and studying abroad. They do this through partnerships with UK institutions.

Sri Lanka Surpasses Malaysia in TNE Partnership Rankings

More students in Sri Lanka are enrolling in UK-based TNE programs. From 2020 to 2023, enrollments jumped from 35,943 to 53,915. This jump doesn’t just show growth in TNE. It shows a wider academic exchange between Sri Lanka and the UK.

Statistics Indicating Sri Lanka’s Organic TNE Growth

The numbers prove Sri Lanka’s growing pull towards UK universities. There are 44 UK institutions with TNE deals in Sri Lanka now. The local drive behind these educational ventures is impressive. It reflects the Sri Lankan market’s value, estimated at $1.1 billion.

Local institutions are addressing the overflow from state universities. In 2022, 171,532 qualified but only 44,000 spots were available. They’re also meeting the demand for quality international education.

These facts show how committed Sri Lanka is to improving education through TNE. It aims to be a top international education hub. Ongoing discussions at educational forums support this goal. This marks an exciting time in Sri Lanka’s education story.

Impact on Local Higher Education and Workforce

Sri Lanka is changing its education scene by working with Transnational Education (TNE). They are using UK standards and innovative teaching methods to fill curriculum gaps and boost education quality.

Filling the Higher Education Gap for Sri Lankan Students

TNE is key in teaching skills development by giving access to tertiary education. It’s great for students who couldn’t reach traditional higher education before. It also meets the needs of the local job market. A new TNE academy could improve this education route and aim for lasting growth.

Contributing to the Skilled Professional Pool

TNE helps add to Sri Lanka’s skilled professionals by improving job chances and global work opportunities. Fields like healthcare, engineering, and law now have professionals trained in the UK. They’re ready to help with the country’s economic and social growth.

Improving education quality and skills development through TNE helps bridge the gap between school and work. It brings new teaching methods to local schools, making them more relevant to today’s youth.

TNE’s benefits and models, like distance learning, are tailored for Sri Lanka. This makes them more effective. Sri Lanka is now creating a new and better way of higher education. It’s inclusive, high-quality, and meets both local and global job market needs.

As it reforms its education, Sri Lanka shows its commitment to better education and global standing. Its work with UK partners will change its education for the better. A strong economy and educational progress are linked, highlighting the need for ongoing investment in tertiary education.

Future Prospects and Strategic Focus

Sri Lanka is focusing on International Education due to exciting educational reforms and its important location. The country is experiencing a rapid increase in UK Transnational Education (TNE) participation. In 2022, enrollments jumped by 50%, reaching nearly 54,000.

This positions Sri Lanka as an emerging hub for quality education and Career Opportunities in Asia. High Commissioner Andrew Patrick advises Sri Lankan graduates to look towards India. It’s a region with fast-growing job opportunities.

Now, Sri Lanka is the second-biggest participant in UK TNE, making up 10% of all UK TNE enrollments worldwide. Building strategic partnerships is essential to leverage this growth. Public-private partnerships and innovative education platforms are being discussed. These efforts aim to enhance Sri Lanka’s educational landscape.

Plans to expand UK TNE beyond Colombo are important. They will help make education more accessible across the country. This way, students from different areas can benefit.

TNE programs and all higher education in Sri Lanka might get a unified quality assurance system. The private education sector, worth $1.1 billion, could see expansion. A public TNE activities repository is also recommended. These steps will improve transparency and decision-making in education.

Such reforms promise to transform higher education in Sri Lanka. In 2022, out of 171,532 qualified students, only 44,000 enrolled in state universities. With Sri Lanka’s strategic focus, the nation is setting itself as a key player in Asia’s International Education.

FAQ

What milestone has Sri Lanka recently achieved in relation to transnational education?

Sri Lanka is now the UK’s second-largest partner in transnational education (TNE). It accounts for 10% of the UK’s total TNE enrollments.

How significant is the growth of TNE enrollment in Sri Lanka?

The number of students choosing TNE in Sri Lanka has jumped by 50% in just two years. This leap, from 35,943 to 53,915 between 2020-2021 and 2022-2023, is a big deal.

What role does TNE play in Sri Lanka’s higher education system?

TNE is key in improving Sri Lanka’s higher education. It makes education more accessible, fixes skill mismatches, and boosts educational quality.

Why is TNE considered a pivotal educational path in Sri Lanka?

TNE is crucial because it offers an opportunity for many. With only a quarter of students getting into public universities, TNE connects them to UK institutions. This gives them recognized qualifications and helps fill the education gap.

What impact does Sri Lanka’s partnership with UK institutions through TNE have on the local workforce?

This partnership is boosting Sri Lanka’s skilled workforce big time. It helps cover curriculum gaps and uses new teaching methods. These strategies get students ready for their careers.

How does the University of London exemplify the impact of TNE in Sri Lanka?

The University of London shows the power of TNE. It’s training future leaders. For example, many judges in Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia have degrees from there.

What advice does the British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Andrew Patrick, give to Sri Lankan graduates?

Andrew Patrick encourages graduates to look at career opportunities in Asia, especially India. He points to the region’s growing economic importance.

What are the future prospects for TNE in Sri Lanka?

TNE in Sri Lanka is expected to keep growing. This growth will support the country’s education sector. It lays a strong base for continuous development in education and careers.

Sri Lanka’s Stock Market Emerges as Leading Performer in Asia

Sri Lanka’s Stock Market Emerges as Leading Performer in Asia

In a time when Asian equity markets buzz with action, Sri Lanka stands out. It has shown strong performance among emerging markets. The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) is celebrated worldwide for its impressive 29.65% return in USD on the ASPI this year.

This increase is a sign of the country’s strong economic recovery. It is making a big mark in South Asian business and trade.

Sri Lanka's Stock Market Emerges as Leading Performer in Asia

According to Bloomberg.com, as of October 25, 2024, the CSE is a top player in global finance. It ranks second among its peers. The growth in market size and the entry of foreign investment are key reasons behind this success.

Investors are showing more trust. This is thanks to a mix of top-notch stocks and diverse investment options available in the country.

The recent success isn’t just about numbers. It’s also about growing confidence in the nation’s stable economy and creative economic moves. The CSE’s strong performance also reflects clear and solid governance in Sri Lanka. This is moving the country into the league of high-performing economies.

Unveiling the Success Story of the Colombo Stock Exchange

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) is a major player in Asia’s financial scene. It has shown strong growth and resilience. The CSE reflects Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and helps it grow by increasing market size and attracting foreign investments.

An Impressive Year-to-Date Return

As of October 2024, the ASPI has climbed 29.65%. This is one of the best results in the region. The increase comes from strong investor belief and interest in major companies. It shows a healthy and expanding market.

Record-Breaking Trading Days and Turnover

The CSE’s trading activity has reached new highs. Daily turnover hit historic levels. For example, in the last week of October 2024, it was Rs. 3.058 billion. And in the final two days, it exceeded Rs. 4.7 billion.

These numbers show Sri Lanka’s market is lively and robust. It’s attractive for both local and international traders.

Sri Lanka’s Resilient Capital Market

The Sri Lankan market is dealing well with global economic challenges. It shows strength and the chance for more growth. Foreign investors engage actively, and the market size is steadily growing.

This helps Sri Lanka’s wider economic recovery. The stability and chances here are great for investors and companies.

The Colombo Stock Exchange plays a key role in Sri Lanka’s financial health and growth. It helps with short-term recovery and long-term wealth. It stands as a pillar of financial stability in Sri Lanka.

Analyzing Market Drivers Behind the Stellar Performance

Sri Lanka’s stock market is doing great because of several important reasons. The country’s economic recovery is a big one. This recovery gets a huge boost from a lot of foreign investment inflows. These investments help grow the market size and make investors feel more confident.

Blue-chip stocks are gaining more attention too. They help keep the market stable and push it forward. People are also liking diversified portfolios more. They want to lower their risks and make the most of the growing economy. The strengthening of the Sri Lankan Rupee against the US dollar shows that people believe in the market. You can see more about this in a detailed analysis by OMP Sri Lanka.

  • Economic recovery: Speeded up by government reforms and rejoining the global market.
  • Foreign investment inflows: Big rise in investments from abroad, especially in tech and infrastructure.
  • Market capitalization growth: Reached new highs, thanks to strong performance in key areas.
  • Investor confidence: Grew with clear policies and better regulation.
  • Blue-chip stocks: Still popular with investors in emerging markets.
  • Diversified portfolios: Investors are diversifying their assets more.

These factors together are not just helping Sri Lanka grow sustainably. They also put Sri Lanka on the map as a strong player in the world economy. Looking at these factors, both investors and policymakers are hopeful about Sri Lanka’s economic future.

Sri Lanka’s Stock Market Emerges as Leading Performer in Asia

The Colombo Stock Exchange has risen against global economic challenges. It now stands as Asia’s second-best performing equity index as of October 25, 2024. This highlights not just current success but also the long-term growth of Sri Lanka’s market.

Investor confidence has grown thanks to more foreign investments and a bigger market size. A strong mix of blue-chip stocks has helped the region’s economy recover. Sri Lanka’s market has shown great strength, even when global economies face hard times.

Offering visa-free entry has helped bring more tourists and revive the economy. Efforts to boost exports led to a 15% increase in early 2023. These actions have created a strong foundation for growth. The work of OMP Sri Lanka is crucial for sharing the success stories of Sri Lanka’s markets.

Sri Lanka’s Stock Market Emerges as Leading Performer in Asia

What recent achievement has the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) accomplished?

The CSE is now Asia’s second-best equity index performer as of October 25, 2024. Its All Share Price Index (ASPI) reported a rise of 29.65% in USD.

How significant is the daily average turnover for the CSE?

Trading activity has surged, with daily turnover jumping to Rs. 3.058 billion. By the week ending October 25, 2024, it hit over Rs. 4.7 billion in the last two days.

Has the market capitalization of the CSE grown recently?

Yes. The market cap has increased significantly. The ASPI ended at 12,517.58 points while the S&P SL20 index rose to 3,759.30 points. This shows substantial growth and resilience in the market.

What factors have contributed to Sri Lanka’s stock market performance?

Economic recovery and stronger investor confidence have boosted the market. There’s also been an upsurge in foreign investments. Blue-chip stocks and diversified portfolios have strengthened the market too.

What does the CSE’s recent performance imply for the future?

The CSE’s impressive performance points to a bright future. It indicates ongoing economic recovery and new growth opportunities. This attracts both local and foreign investors.

An Impressive Year-to-Date Return

The ASPI of CSE has shown a great return of 29.65% in USD this year. This demonstrates strong potential for investors in diversified portfolios.

Record-Breaking Trading Days and Turnover

There’s been a massive trading increase, breaking previous records. This indicates a lively market and a keen interest in blue-chip stocks.

Sri Lanka’s Resilient Capital Market

The CSE’s success showcases Sri Lanka’s market resilience. It suggests a steady economic recovery and stable growth opportunities, attracting investors.

How have economic recovery and foreign investment influenced the CSE?

Sri Lanka’s economic bounce-back and steady foreign investment inflows have driven CSE’s success. This uplifts market capitalization and investor confidence.

Why are blue-chip stocks and diversified portfolios important for the CSE’s performance?

Blue-chip stocks bring stability and draw substantial investments. Diversified portfolios reduce risks and support market capitalization. These elements are crucial for CSE’s success.

FAO and Norway Collaborate to Enhance Fisheries Resilience

FAO and Norway Collaborate to Enhance Fisheries Resilience

The FAO and Norad are teaming up to strengthen Sri Lanka’s fisheries and aquaculture sector. This international cooperation aims to boost sustainable fishing and support the country’s blue economy. The goal is to ensure food security and promote responsible practices.

Fish is crucial for Sri Lanka’s protein needs. Over half of the nation’s animal protein comes from fish consumption. However, the industry faces many challenges.

Rising fuel prices and production costs are major issues. Fish loss along the value chain also impacts product affordability. These problems particularly affect low-income groups.

The FAO-Norway project will target three main areas. First, they’ll work to stop illegal and unreported fishing. Second, they’ll increase climate change resilience. Third, they’ll reduce food waste in the fisheries chain.

The project will provide technical support to various groups. These include policymakers, management experts, and industry professionals. Fishers, fish farmers, and fish workers will also receive help.

The aim is to boost Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector through responsible resource use. Marine conservation will play a key role in this effort. This will contribute to the country’s overall socio-economic growth.

Sri Lanka’s Fisheries Sector Faces Challenges

Sri Lanka’s fisheries industry supports 2.5 million coastal residents. It’s struggling amid the country’s economic crisis. The sector provides half of Sri Lankans’ animal protein but faces rising fuel prices and costs.

Economic Crisis Impacts Fisheries Industry

Fuel price hikes have hit the fisheries sector hard. Higher costs make it tough for fishers to earn a living. As a result, fish prices have increased, affecting low-income groups.

Rising Fuel Prices and Production Costs Affect Affordability

Fish is a key protein source for Sri Lankans. But soaring costs have made it less affordable for many households. This raises concerns about people’s nutrition, especially in lower-income groups.

Fish Loss and Waste Along the Value Chain

Sri Lanka’s fisheries face fish loss and waste issues. Poor cold storage and transport lead to post-harvest losses. This reduces fish supply in the market.

Addressing these problems is vital for food security. It’s also crucial for maintaining the sector’s long-term sustainability.

FAO and Norway Collaborate to Enhance Resilience in Fisheries Sector

FAO and Norway are teaming up to boost Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector. They’re focusing on responsible use of resources and building capacity. Their project aims to improve fisheries governance, fight illegal fishing, and adapt to climate change.

FAO delivered two climate-resilient fishing boats to the Ministry of Fisheries. These boats, SL20 and SL23, cost about LKR 9 million. The project also introduced 30 modified fish display stalls across Sri Lanka.

Developing Capacities to Combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing

The project aims to fight illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. It’s implementing Port State Measures and improving marine resources management. These efforts protect small-scale fishers’ livelihoods and ensure food security in Sri Lanka.

Increasing Resilience to Climate Change

Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector is vulnerable to climate change impacts. The project builds resilience through training and new technologies. Climate-resilient fishing boats are helping the sector adapt to changing conditions.

Reducing Food Loss and Waste in the Fisheries Value Chain

A NARA study found poor maintenance practices among Sri Lankan fish retailers. This leads to significant post-harvest losses. FAO’s new fish display stalls promote better handling and storage practices.

These stalls aim to reduce food loss along the fisheries value chain. The FAO-Norway partnership shows commitment to sustainable fisheries development in Sri Lanka. It addresses IUU fishing, climate change, and post-harvest losses.

This project aims to improve fishing communities’ well-being. It also ensures responsible use of fisheries resources for future generations.

Introducing Technology Upgrades for Sustainability

The FAO is boosting Sri Lanka’s fisheries with new tech upgrades. These aim to tackle issues like post-harvest losses and high fuel use. Advanced cooling, fuel-efficient tech, and AI apps will improve the industry’s sustainability.

Advanced Cooling Systems to Reduce Post-Harvest Losses

New cooling systems on multi-day fishing boats help cut post-harvest losses. These systems keep fish fresh and high-quality. This increases market value and reduces waste.

The upgrade benefits fishermen financially and supports food security. More of the catch now reaches consumers in better condition.

Fuel-Efficient Bulbous Bow Technology to Cut Fuel Consumption

The FAO has added fuel-efficient bulbous bow tech to fishing boats. This design change cuts drag and boosts efficiency. Boats with this tech can save up to 13% on fuel.

Lower fuel use means less cost for fishermen. It also reduces harmful emissions. This tech makes fishing more eco-friendly and cost-effective.

AI-Powered Mobile App for Real-Time Fish Quality Assessment

An AI-powered app now helps assess fish quality in real-time. It quickly checks catch quality against Yellowfin Tuna export standards. The app gives instant feedback on freshness, size, and overall condition.

This tool helps fishers and processors make smart choices. It boosts operations and meets global market needs. The app improves competitiveness and promotes sustainable fishing practices.