Sri Lanka Imposes Strict Ban on VMS Violations

To safeguard its fishing industry and national security, Sri Lanka's Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DFAR) announced a six-month strict ban, effective February 1, 2026, on skippers and crews of vessels violating foreign maritime boundaries or deactivating the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS). Key points include:

• Ban Duration: Six months, starting February 1, 2026.
• Offenses Targeted: Unauthorized entry into foreign Exclusive Economic Zones and deliberate deactivation of VMS.
• Objective: Curb illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing activities to protect ocean resources and the seafood export market.

DFAR urges all vessel operators to maintain active VMS throughout voyages and respect maritime boundaries to avoid penalties.