CMISL and CFHC join forces to revolutionise Sri Lanka’s marine industry

From left: CMISL Director Sharzan Perera, Director Adityavikram More, Director Jagath Adipola, Treasurer Akalanka Rathnayake, Chairman Indhra Kaushal Rajapaksa, CFHC Chairman Kapila Bamunuarchchi, CFHC General Manager Mudalige Janaka Prasanna, CMISL Director Rear Adm. D.K. Dasanayake, CMISL Secretary Isuru Gunathilake, CFHC Engineering Deputy General Manager Prabath Ranaweera, Harbour Operations Manager Sumudu Dahanayaka, and Assistant Marketing Manager A.M.P. Srilal 

In a landmark initiative, the Chamber of Marine Industries of Sri Lanka (CMISL) and the Ceylon Fisheries Harbour Corporation (CFHC) have joined hands to chart a transformative course for the nation’s marine industry. Headed by CFHC Chairman Kapila Bamunuarchchi on one side and CMISL Chairman Indhra Kaushal Rajapaksa leading their team of Chamber Directors on the other, the meeting brought together prominent industry leaders to chart a transformative course for Sri Lanka’s marine industry. This historic meeting laid the foundation for ambitious plans to unlock the potential of Sri Lanka’s strategic location and abundant marine resources.

The collaboration focuses on addressing pressing industry challenges while seizing emerging opportunities in nautical tourism, offshore services, and boat building. By fostering public-private partnerships and prioritising sustainability, the initiative aims to position Sri Lanka as a global maritime hub in the Indian Ocean.

Key outcomes and strategic objectives

Development of mini-marinas

The proposal includes converting five to six fisheries harbours into mini-marinas catering to both commercial fishing and nautical tourism. These facilities will be equipped with modern amenities for yachts and tourists, ensuring high returns on minimal investment. This initiative aims to boost international visitor arrivals, foster local tourism, and enhance harbour efficiency.

Public-private infrastructure partnerships

Recognising the critical need for modern infrastructure, the stakeholders agreed to involve private sector partners in operationalising key facilities such as travel lifts and ship lifts. Notably, the ship/boat lift at Mutwal Harbour will be made accessible for yacht and boat repairs, enhancing service capacity and reducing downtime for vessel owners.

Streamlining customs and immigration

The CFHC committed to working with Government authorities to simplify customs and immigration processes, especially for yachts entering or exiting Sri Lankan waters. These measures will include streamlined entry procedures, flexible berthing options, and smoother movement between marinas, making Sri Lanka a hassle-free nautical tourism destination.

Clearing abandoned vessels

Clearing abandoned boats from fisheries harbours is a priority to free up valuable mooring space for visiting yachts and other vessels. This initiative will significantly improve the operational capacity and visual appeal of these harbours.

Support for boat manufacturing

To bolster the burgeoning boat-building sector, the CFHC will allocate harbour lands and buildings for manufacturing operations. The first phase will focus on facilities in Beruwala, enabling manufacturers to expand and cater to growing domestic and international demand.

Anchorage and marina development

With assistance from donor agencies and private investors, the development of anchorages and mini-marinas will improve coastal infrastructure, enhancing Sri Lanka’s capacity to attract nautical tourism and strengthen the marine economy.

Global expertise and sustainability

Leveraging support from the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA), the collaboration will implement global best practices. Emphasis was also placed on addressing environmental concerns, including plans to establish fiberglass waste recycling and disposal facilities to ensure sustainable practices in the boat-building sector.

Welipatanwila groyne project

The construction of a groyne at Welipatanwila was discussed as a critical infrastructure improvement to support safer anchorage and efficient boat launching, benefitting both fishermen and manufacturers.

Investor-ready project proposals

The CFHC committed to preparing detailed proposals for each selected harbour, outlining costs, infrastructure needs, and potential returns. These comprehensive documents will serve as a foundation for attracting both local and international investments.

Charting the future

This ground-breaking partnership between CMISL and CFHC marks the beginning of a new era for Sri Lanka’s marine industry. By addressing key challenges, fostering public-private collaboration, and prioritising sustainable growth, Sri Lanka is poised to become a beacon of maritime excellence.

The meeting’s high-profile attendees included CFHC Chairman Kapila Bamunuarchchi, CFHC General Manager Mudalige Janaka Prasanna, and senior CMISL members led by Chairman Indhra Kaushal Rajapaksa. Their collective vision and expertise have laid the groundwork for actionable plans to revitalise the marine industry.

As Sri Lanka focuses on nautical tourism, offshore services, and boat building, this strategic alignment ensures the country is well-equipped to harness its full maritime potential. The marine industry is set to be a cornerstone of economic resilience, driving Sri Lanka towards a prosperous future in the global maritime arena.

Sri Lanka is ready to set sail—charting a bold and transformative course, driven by innovation, unity, and a shared vision.