Active Farms
Annual Production
Farmers Employed
Market Value
Tilapia farming is one of the most successful aquaculture ventures in Sri Lanka, contributing significantly to food security and rural livelihoods. NAQDA provides comprehensive support for tilapia cultivation in freshwater systems including ponds, tanks, and reservoirs.
Our genetically improved farmed tilapia (GIFT) strains offer superior growth rates, disease resistance, and adaptability to local conditions, making tilapia farming highly profitable for both small-scale and commercial operations.
Select suitable location with water availability. Prepare ponds (0.5-2 hectares), ensure 1.5-2m depth, install inlet/outlet systems, and lime the pond bottom.
Maintain optimal parameters: Temperature 25-32°C, pH 6.5-8.5, Dissolved Oxygen >5mg/L, Ammonia <0.1mg/L. Regular water exchange (10-20% weekly).
Stock quality fingerlings from NAQDA-approved hatcheries. Density: 2-3 fish/m² for extensive, 5-10 fish/m² for semi-intensive systems.
Use quality commercial feed (25-35% protein). Feed 3-4% body weight daily, divided into 2-3 feedings. Adjust based on growth and water temperature.
Regular health checks, disease prevention through good management, biosecurity measures, and consultation with NAQDA extension officers when needed.
Harvest at 200-500g (4-6 months). Use seine nets for partial harvesting. Market through local markets, supermarkets, or direct sales. Average yield: 4-8 MT/ha/cycle.
Reaches market size in 4-6 months, allowing 2-3 cycles per year
Hardy species with high tolerance to diseases and environmental changes
Low production cost with high market demand ensures good returns
Efficient feed conversion, low environmental impact, suitable for integrated farming
Excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients
Can be cultured in ponds, cages, tanks, and integrated aquaponics systems
GIFT tilapia fingerlings from certified hatcheries at subsidized rates
Regular training on modern farming techniques and best practices
Free water quality testing and disease diagnosis services
Subsidies up to 50% for pond construction and equipment
Connect farmers with buyers and provide market information
Streamlined licensing process with one-year renewable permits
Central Province
Tel: 066-228-4522
Southern Province
Tel: 047-223-3445
Eastern Province
Tel: 063-224-6778
North Central
Tel: 025-222-1234
Join thousands of successful tilapia farmers across Sri Lanka
Learn from expert tutorials and success stories
Complete guide for beginners - pond setup, stocking, and management
Selective breeding and hatchery management for improved yields
How one farmer achieved 10 tons/hectare production
Everything you need to know about Tilapia farming in Sri Lanka
For commercial tilapia farming, ponds ranging from 0.5 to 2 hectares are ideal. Smaller ponds (0.1-0.5 ha) are suitable for beginners. The pond should be 1.5-2 meters deep with good water retention capacity and proper drainage facilities.
Tilapia typically reach market size (500-800 grams) in 4-6 months under optimal conditions. Growth rate depends on water quality, feeding management, stocking density, and the specific strain of tilapia. GIFT tilapia strains can reach market size in just 4 months.
You need an Aquaculture License from NAQDA, which includes environmental clearance. For farms over 2 hectares, an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required. Additional permits include water extraction permit, land use permit, and if exporting, an export license. NAQDA provides one-stop service for all licensing requirements.
With proper management, tilapia farming can yield 30-40% profit margins. Average production is 6-10 tons per hectare per cycle. At current market prices (Rs. 350-450/kg), farmers can earn Rs. 2.1-4.5 million per hectare per cycle. Production costs typically range from Rs. 200-250 per kg.
Common diseases include Streptococcosis, Columnaris, and Trichodiniasis. Prevention involves maintaining water quality (pH 6.5-8.5, DO >5mg/L), regular monitoring, proper stocking density (3-5 fish/m²), and biosecurity measures. NAQDA provides free disease diagnosis services and vaccination programs. Regular water testing and quarantine of new stock are essential.
Yes, NAQDA offers several financial assistance programs including subsidies up to 50% for infrastructure development (maximum Rs. 2 million), low-interest loans through partner banks at 4-6% interest, free fingerlings for first-time farmers, and technical training. Special packages are available for youth and women entrepreneurs.
Still have questions?
Contact Our Support Team