The Export Development Board’s (EDB) Ornamental Advisory Committee met at the EDB premises recently to address the problems faced by the sector.
It was chaired by Sathyendra Wijayapura. EDB Chairman Dr. Kingsley Bernard, prominent figures of the industry, including leaders from the Tropical Ornamental Fish Association were also present.
The EDB Chief expressed a strong commitment to resolve the industry’s issues with the assistance of Government agencies, and discussions during the meeting delved into the key challenges faced by the Island’s Ornamental Fish sector.
Industry representatives said that the competitive freight rates offered by other countries affect the potential of Sri Lanka’s ornamental fish exports in the European and USA markets while the urgent need for reforms in import conditions, import bans, regulations on tissue-cultured plants, and the Department of Forest’s restrictions on exporting exotic species was also discussed.
Concerns were raised about delays in obtaining fresh animal quarantine reports, within a 48-hour timeframe, thereby restricting the ability to provide timely customer updates, particularly during extended weekends.The meeting underscored the industry’s pressing need for comprehensive reforms across various aspects of the Ornamental Fish sector.
The EDB conducts webinars and awareness sessions regularly with the support of foreign missions to foster connections with clients in overseas markets and drive growth in the industry.Emphasising the importance of the EDB Advisory Committees, the meeting emphasised their pivotal role in informing advisors, policymakers, national institutions, and other stakeholders about programs and reforms aimed at boosting specific industries.
The facilitation of the growth of Sri Lanka’s export sector remains the overarching objective of the EDB Advisory Committees.The officials of the EDB’s Export Agriculture division were also present, symbolising the collaborative efforts and the commitment of various sectors to drive positive change in the Ornamental Fish industry.
