Abstract:
The COVID-19 pandemic, which has provided the basis for creating
a highly problematic environment in every sector of the world
today has also had a significant impact on the fisheries industry
which is one of the world’s leading economic activities. The main
objective of this study was to examine the socio-economic impacts
on fisheries industry before and during COVID-19 pandemic
situation with special reference to Tangalle Divisional Secretariat
Division. The study was based on the four Grama Niladhari
Divisions of Kudawella North, Central, South and West associated
with the Kudawella Fisheries Harbor. Primary data was collected
from a field survey using a semi structured questionnaire from 74
fishing families representing the 75% of the population under
stratified random sampling. Paired T test was carried out to test
the variables comparatively before and after COVID-19 pandemic
to confirm the result statistically. In addition, simple statistical
methods were used for the quantitative assessment. Results
revealed that the epidemic situation had a significant socioeconomic impact on the fishing industry during the COVID-19
pandemic situation such as declining income, growth of
indebtedness, disruption of children’s education, mental distress
and social stigma. Suggestions were identified to mitigate the
impacts. In this context, it was concluded that the COVID-19
epidemic has primarily affected the fisheries industry and as a
result, created many socio-economic problems for the fisheries
community
