Sri Lanka, Japan Partner to Reduce Post-Harvest Losses in Fisheries Industry

COLOMBO (News 1st): A new project aimed at reducing post-harvest losses in Sri Lanka’s fisheries industry is being planned in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The Ministry of Fisheries said arrangements are underway to enter into a special cooperation agreement with JICA.

As an initial step, an assessment has already been completed to identify the key needs and challenges related to post-harvest losses, one of the major issues facing the fisheries sector.

Based on the findings, JICA plans to prepare project proposals aimed at reducing post-harvest losses in both coastal and deep-sea fishing operations.

A feasibility study to collect the necessary data is scheduled to be conducted from November this year until February 28.

The survey will focus on selected locations representing coastal and deep-sea fishing areas around the island.

The initial study is expected to identify the extent of fish wastage during coastal and deep-sea fishing operations, along with the factors contributing to these losses.

Based on the data collected, the final report and its recommendations, authorities plan to formally launch the main project, with the aim of creating greater value from the available fish harvest by minimising post-harvest losses.