Offshore aquaculture in Sri Lanka: Possibilities and challenges

Abstract

Sri Lanka has a long coastline with a vast oceanic area included within its EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone). The increasing demand for local fish consumption has highlighted the necessity to develop aquaculture in Sri Lanka. At present, the fisheries sector remains as the main source of animal protein requirement for the local population with a gradual increase in aquaculture. Inland-based aquaculture is the main type of fish farming with shrimps and several freshwater fishes being the main culture species. Aquaculture has been identified as a potential sector that can contribute to the national economy in the future. The recent interest towards the development of offshore aquaculture in Sri Lanka is evident with the entering of several public and private institutions in establishing sea cage farming. However, it is necessary to address the environmental, social and economic challenges of establishing offshore aquaculture in Sri Lanka. This paper reviewed the potential of offshore finfish farming in Sri Lanka including a SWOT analysis, the positive and negative environmental conditions, recent involvements from the private sector, the possible conflicts that can arise among stakeholders and future recommendations.