Simon Max Astandoust, a fourth-generation member of the illustrious Astan fishing family, is the founder and CEO of Seamax Ceylon (Pvt) Ltd, a company that set out to bring world-class tuna processing technology to Sri Lanka. With investments running into millions of US dollars, Astandoust’s vision was to transform Sri Lanka into a regional hub for ultra-fresh tuna exports.

However, years of bureaucratic hurdles, government changes, and policy inconsistencies have left his project stalled. In this candid interview, Astandoust shares the legacy of his family business, his hopes for Sri Lanka, and the challenges that threaten to push investors away.

Q: Tell us about the history of your company and the Astan family’s legacy in the fishing industry.

A:The Astan family’s journey in fishing dates back to 1818, beginning with my great-great-grandfather, followed by my great-grandfather, grandfather, father, and now myself and the next generation as well. My son, Sam Astan, who is based in the United States, is continuing the family tradition. I represent the fourth generation of the Astan family in this trade.

Our story began on the Caspian Sea, where my grandfather first ventured into commercial fishing. Later, my father married into a family that was in the caviar business, blending two deep-rooted maritime traditions. Over the centuries, the Astan name has become recognized globally for quality and excellence in the fishing industry.

Q: What motivated you to invest in Sri Lanka?

A:Around 2014, we decided to expand our global operations beyond Europe. Our parent company is based in Spain, so we first moved into Senegal, Mauritania, and Morocco, where tuna resources were abundant.

We then identified Sri Lanka as a strategic location with an excellent reputation for yellowfin tuna. We sent a team here and to the Maldives to study the tuna industry. After careful evaluation, I personally visited Sri Lanka in 2016, and by 2017, we decided to establish a company here, Seamax Ceylon (Pvt) Ltd.

We wanted a factory within a harbour to maintain the freshness of the catch, as moving fish long distances affects quality. I met with government officials, including the Minister, the Secretary to the Ministry, and the Chairman of the Ceylon Fishery Harbours Corporation (CFHC). They welcomed our proposal and were enthusiastic about the technology and investment we planned to bring in around USD 20–25 million.

We were assured of a 15-year lease for a site at the Dickkowita Harbour, but despite written confirmation from the then Chairman, the promised lease has never been granted.

Q: What challenges did you face after that initial agreement?

A:Unfortunately, when we inspected the site, it was far below international standards lacking even basic infrastructure for workers. Since the government had no budget to upgrade it, I personally financed the renovation and modernization of the facility, against the advice of my financial consultants.

Even after completing major improvements, we were told to “go ahead” without the lease being formalized. Then came a change in government, and everything changed — officials, policies, and priorities.

We had to start from scratch, explaining the project all over again to a new set of officials. They too encouraged us to proceed and even asked us to bring in our vessels. We invested further, importing four vessels. Then the COVID-19 pandemic struck, bringing all operations to a halt.

After the pandemic, another issue arose — one of our vessels became entangled in a legal dispute, which dragged on for years, causing significant mental and financial stress.

Q: How have these challenges affected your plans to introduce new technology to Sri Lanka?

A:Our goal was to introduce super-freezing technology — what we call “C Minus 60” or ultra-fresh processing. This process freezes tuna to –60°C within hours of harvest, preserving its natural flavour and texture without using heavy chemical gases like CO2.

This is the gold standard in Japan and other advanced markets, ensuring top-grade tuna that meets the expectations of elite restaurants. Unfortunately, because of the uncertainty surrounding our factory lease, we have been unable to install this technology in Sri Lanka.

The country’s current tuna export methods are outdated — similar to what my great-great-grandfather used over a century ago. Without adopting new methods, Sri Lanka’s tuna exports will continue to be graded B, B+ or C, never achieving A-grade status in global markets.

Q: What has been your experience dealing with different governments in Sri Lanka?

A:Frankly, every time a government changes, we are forced to start over again. It’s exhausting. Under the previous administration, former Minister Douglas Devananda was genuinely interested in modernizing the fishing sector. He understood the importance of new technology and supported our project. The lease was ready for signing — and then the government changed again.

This current administration, I’m sorry to say, seems less informed about the industry and less interested in engaging with investors. Many officials we meet do not understand the technology or the global standards we are working with.

It’s disheartening, because the Maldives has already approached us, offering to host our project there. One of my friends started a similar initiative in Seychelles at the same time I started here, and his investment is now earning millions of dollars. Meanwhile, we are still stuck here waiting for approvals.

Q: Given all these difficulties, what are your plans going forward?

A:I have already invested USD 6–7 million in Sri Lanka, and I continue to pay my staff despite the factory being idle. I’m deeply saddened because I love this country and its people. I truly believe Sri Lanka can become a major global player in premium tuna exports if only there was stability, consistency, and professionalism in government dealings.

If this issue is not resolved soon, I may have no choice but to seek legal recourse. No investor wants to fight legal battles just to get what was promised. Investors seek clarity and continuity, not chaos.

Our ultra-fresh super-freezing technology could revolutionize Sri Lanka’s seafood exports, bringing in millions in foreign exchange. But without the government’s cooperation, that dream remains on hold.

Q: Any final thoughts for Sri Lanka’s policymakers?

A:My message is simple: Sri Lanka has enormous potential, but it must create an environment where investors feel safe and supported. Governments may change, but agreements and commitments should not.

We came here in good faith, bringing in world-class technology, investment, and employment opportunities. All we ask in return is transparency, continuity, and respect for agreements.

By Saman Indrajith ✍️