Technological Novelties for a Sustainable Deep Sea Fishery in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Effective poaching of deep sea fishers into neighboring Exciusive Economic Zones [EEZJ and even beyond was disclaimed by European Union IEUJ and banned fish and fisheries products from Sri Lanka. As a result of the series of discussions held between EU delegates and Governmentof SriLanka[GOSL)officers with the mediation of fish exporters' association, 1500 licenses were granted for high seas operation with adjustments. This study evaluates the strategies and adjustments adopted to unveil the EU ban by G0SL deeming on technological innovations and their consequences. The study was mainly based on secondary data from Ministry of Fisheries and Vessel Monitoring Center. Further, key informant discussions were held with responsible resource personnel in the sector. In depth interviews with skippers and key informant discussions were held to glean primary data. Findings indicate two folds of changes: technology and awareness. Technological innovations were introduced for the licensed boats thus transponders, e-log books, and active radio communication around the clock was implemented. All the measures were taken for traceability, which was the prime focus of the EU. Trained skippers were accredited with a certificate in order to allow high seas fishing operations. Consequently, poaching brought down successfully to one percent within two years. However, practical obstacles are yet to be solved from fishers' perspectives. Ear marketing the deep sea fisheries, Sri Lanka is privileged with the novel technology compared to the other countries in the region. Thus, policy focus is needed to be steering toward high seas fishing operations that would ensure multiple benefits to all the stakeholders attaining fisheries policy targets with advanced technology and knowhow.