Deputy Minister Rathna Gamage pledges to transform the unprofitable institution into a profitable national asset
The historically unprofitable Ceylon Fisheries Corporation (CFC) launched its 2026 Annual Action Plan on 14th of January 2026, with the aim of revitalizing it. As part of the "Clean Sri Lanka" national program, the work of this transformative year began under the patronage of Deputy Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, Rathna Gamage.
The Deputy Minister, who visited the Fisheries Corporation premises along with the Secretary to the Ministry, Dr. B. K. Kolitha Kamal Jinadasa and senior officials, reviewed the new strategic plan. The occasion began with a massive Shramadana program to clean the buildings and grounds of the Corporation, marking a new beginning for the institution.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Minister Gamage highlighted the financial commitment made by the government to stabilize the Fisheries Corporation. “Over the years, the Fisheries Corporation had been pushed aside as an unprofitable institution with arrears for EPF, ETF and Gratuity,” the Deputy Minister said. “However, under the leadership of His Excellency the President, our government has allocated a significant amount in the 2026 budget to settle this historic debt, paving a solid path for the Corporation to move forward.”
With a clear five-year vision, he stated that the Fisheries Corporation is ready for a major renovation to become a major player in the national economy. The main pillars of this transformation are:
1. Increasing fish procurement: Gradually increasing the fish procurement market share from the current 1% to an optimal level while creating a stable and fair market for local fishermen.
2. Modernization: Implementing new cold storage solutions and streamlining distribution and marketing networks.
3. Market expansion: Implementing a strategic program targeting the local and international markets.
4. Overall 'cleaning': In addition to physical cleanliness, creating an alteration in the institutional culture for efficient financial and operational management.
"We believe that the year 2026 will be a unique, transformative year in the history of the Ceylon Fisheries Corporation," concluded Deputy Minister Rathna Gamage. "Our vision is to make this institution an institution that brings relief and pride to our fishing community, provides quality fish to the consumer at a reasonable price, and makes a direct contribution to the national economy."
This new plan, prepared by the Acting Chairman of the Fisheries Corporation, Mr. Nowuras, and the Board of Directors, marks a determined effort to lead the Corporation towards profitability and national importance.
