Deputy Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, Hon. Rathna Gamage, went on an observation tour at the Peliyagoda Central Fish Market Complex, which is the main centre for fish distribution in the country, today (12) to look into the longstanding issues faced by wholesale and retail traders, and held a special discussion with the trading community.
During this meeting, which was held as part of the programme to obtain proposals from the fisheries sector for the upcoming budget, the Deputy Minister has engaged in direct discussions with representatives of wholesale and retail trade associations.
At this meeting, the trading community raised several major issues with the Deputy Minister:
Irregular wholesale trade: Wholesale traders pointed out that fish lorries arriving at the complex often bypass the registered wholesale stalls and sell directly to outside buyers within the premises, causing severe difficulties to registered businessmen and it collapses the regular method of the market.
Need for registration of traders: Allegations were made that the fact that a formal identity card has not been issued to traders, employees, and authorized service providers in the market complex, has led to the increase of access of persons, thefts, and other irregularities.
Security and legal issues: Traders pointed out that they face serious difficulties in resolving financial frauds (such as issuing dishonoured cheques) and business disputes within the market complex.
Deputy Minister Rathna Gamage, having listened attentively to all these issues, assured the trading community that immediate steps would be taken to resolve the said issues.
“The Peliyagoda Fish Market Complex is a very important place that contributes directly to both the economy of the country and the nutrition of the people. The government’s aim is to resolve the existing problems in this market and create a healthy, regular, and peaceful business environment. I will intervene to stop unauthorized trading, expedite the programme to issue identity cards to all traders, and establish a proper security system after discussing with the police” the Deputy Minister stated.
The Deputy Minister asked them to submit their proposals in writing, and further emphasized that a short-term plan would be prepared immediately to operate this market complex in a new appearance from 2026, and that everyone should give their cooperation in that regard.
