Japan Assists Sri Lanka’s Cold Chain Capacity Enhancement

On 10th June, H. E. Akio ISOMATA, Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, handed over six refrigerated trucks to Mr. Mohammad Nowras Nasar, Chairman of the Ceylon Fisheries Corporation (CFC) in the presence of Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar, Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources and Hon. Ratna Gamage, Deputy Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources.
 
This handover forms part of the Economic and Social Development Programme, a grant assistance project funded by the Government of Japan with a total value of 200 million Japanese Yen (approximately USD 1.25 million). The project also includes the provision of three ice-making machines in Jaffna, Mullaitivu and Trincomalee, to further strengthen Sri Lanka’s cold chain capacity.
 
At present, the transportation of fish and other marine products over long distances, particularly from the Northern and Eastern Provinces to Colombo, spanning approximately 300 to 400 kilometres, faces significant challenges. These include substantial post-harvest losses, deterioration in product quality due to inadequate temperature control, and a consequent reduction in export competitiveness. It is estimated that post-harvest losses in Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector may reach as high as 40 per cent.

The six refrigerated trucks handed over under this project will be operated by the Ceylon Fisheries Corporation to transport marine products from the Northern and Eastern Provinces to Colombo. The introduction of these vehicles is expected to substantially strengthen the fisheries cold chain, thereby reducing post-harvest losses, preserving product quality, and enhancing the efficiency of fisheries distribution networks.
 
Ambassador ISOMATA emphasized, “A cold chain is not merely a technology or logistics system for cooling fish; it is the vital foundation that protects the hard work of fishermen, secures the trust of consumers, and supports national food security. Inadequate temperature control not only causes significant post-harvest losses, but also leads to health hazards, price reductions, and loss of market confidence. Amid growing concerns regarding rising food and fuel prices driven by the current situation in the Middle East, strengthening the cold chain and reducing post-harvest losses have become ever more important. We hope that this assistance will serve as a catalyst for further private sector investment in cold chain infrastructure. The government and people of Japan will continue to stand alongside the people of Sri Lanka as its steadfast friend and partner in support of the country’s journey on the path for sustainable development and resilient society.”

Hon. Minister Chandrasekar stated, “On behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka and our fishing community, I extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Government and the people of Japan for this vital contribution. The donation of these six refrigerated trucks marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to modernize Sri Lanka’s fisheries infrastructure. Maintaining an efficient cold chain is absolutely critical to minimizing post-harvest losses, ensuring the highest quality of fish reaches consumers, and stabilizing market prices for our local fishermen. These vehicles will drastically improve the distribution capabilities of the Ceylon Fisheries Corporation, enabling us to transport fresh harvest safely across the island.  This gesture is a testament to the enduring and time-tested bilateral friendship between Japan and Sri Lanka. We look forward to continuing our close cooperation with Japan to foster a sustainable and resilient blue economy that uplifts the livelihoods of our coastal communities.”
 
The Government of Japan sincerely hopes that the equipment provided through this project will be utilized effectively and sustainably, contributing to the further development of Sri Lanka’s fisheries industry. It is also expected to strengthen food security, improve livelihoods within coastal communities, and further deepen the longstanding bonds of friendship and cooperation between Japan and Sri Lanka.