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.