With the aim of conserving marine resources of Sri Lanka and securing international fish export markets, a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and 11 other key government institutes to curb illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing on 22.09.2025 at the Auditorium of the Ministry of Fisheries.
This will strengthen laws related to Sri Lankan fisheries, protect depleting marine resources and ensure continued fish exports to key markets such as the European Union (EU). This step was taken while implementing the recommendations made during discussions with EU representatives in last February.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister Rathna Gamage said: "In the face of the threat of a fishing ban imposed by the European Union, we made a promise as a government to take all necessary steps to change this situation. This agreement being signed today is a major step in fulfilling that promise. In order to protect our marine resources and the livelihood of the fishing community, as well as to build a productive economy, it is essential to act in a proper manner that respects national and international laws."
In addition to the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, many institutions including the Sri Lanka Navy, Department of Coast Guard, Sri Lanka Police, Sri Lanka Customs, Ports Authority, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Justice are contributing to this agreement.
Through this joint approach, the Ministry intends to create a strong foundation for a sustainable fishing industry while safeguarding the reputation of Sri Lanka.
Participating Institutes
Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DFAR) as the lead coordinating Institute.
▪ Sri Lanka Navy / Department of Coast Guard for search operations and enforcement activities
▪ Sri Lanka Police for law enforcement and support in investigative activities.
▪ Sri Lanka Customs for control of port and cargo inspection.
▪ Ministry of Justice and National Integration for legal advice and support in prosecution activities.
▪ Ministry of Foreign Affairs for coordination with regional and international institutions.
▪ Sri Lanka Ports Authority for facilitating port inspections and preventing the landing of illegally caught fish.
▪ Department of Immigration and Emigration for preventing illegal entry or human trafficking and verifying and monitoring the documentation of vessel crew.
▪ Ministry of Health for occupational health and disease control among fishermen and other persons in the fishing sector.
▪ The Telecommunication Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka is responsible for providing technical guidance on the compatibility of radio equipment, inter-institutional coordination and data exchange.
▪ The Department of Labour is responsible for inspecting working conditions in the fisheries sector and implementing relevant labour laws.
