Prices of fish in the local market have reportedly increased following a protest launched by traditional fishermen demanding the Government lift the ban on the use of winch machines mounted on tractors by Ma-del (seine-net) fishermen. Traders report the quantity of fish arriving in the market has decreased in recent days due to the protest, leading to increases in both wholesale and retail prices.

At the Peliyagoda Fish Market on Tuesday (10), wholesale prices were recorded as follows: Kelawalla (Yellowfin Tuna) at Rs. 2,700 per kg, Thora (Seer/Spanish Mackerel) at Rs. 3,600 per kg, and Paraw (Jack/Trevallies) at Rs. 3,000 per kg. Meanwhile, retail prices were also reported as: Salaya (Goldstripe Sardinella) at Rs. 700 per kg, Linna (Indian Scad/Northern Mackerel Scad/Round Scad/Russell's Mackerel Scad/Slender Scad/Three Lined Grunter) at Rs. 900 per kg, and Balaya (Skipjack Tuna) at Rs. 2,000 per kg.

The ongoing protest by fishermen demanding the lifting of the ban on winch machines mounted on tractors had entered its sixth day on Tuesday.

The fishermen staging the protest said that during discussions held on Monday (9), they were informed that a committee would be appointed under the President to look into their concerns. However, the protesters emphasised that they still hope to hold direct talks with the President regarding their issue.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Fisheries Minister Ratna Gamage stated the case filed by the fishermen is scheduled to be recalled on 27 February 2026, after which the Government is ready to hold discussions with the fishermen.