Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Ahmed Shiyam, has stated that it is the current government that is responding to the needs of fishermen and fulfilling their expectations.
He made the statement while speaking at the launch of land reclamation and harbour construction for the new fish canning factory in Fiyoaree, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.
The Minister said the Maldives has one of the most sustainable fisheries in the world and accounts for 50 percent of pole and line fisheries export market. However, the Maldives lacks the power to set fish prices due to industry arrangements, he noted.
Minister Shiyam said President Dr Mohamed Muizzu is actively addressing this situation to boost the fisheries sector. The President’s efforts have rejuvenated hope for the Maldives’ fisheries industry and improving prices for Maldivian exports.
The Minister emphasised the need to increase cold storage capacity, and revealed the government’s aim to increase the current capacity from 9,500 tonnes to 25,000 tonnes. This will help control the price of Maldivian fish in international markets, he said.
Regarding the Fiyoaree project, the Minister said the canning factory and harbour will benefit fishermen across the region. It will reduce the need and the expenses incurred, to travel 40 miles to Kooddoo to process fish. Noting that the project includes a 3,000-tonne cold storage facility, he said this number is far higher than the 500-tonne capacity previously requested by local fishermen.
The government plans to complete dredging, harbour works, and the facility by the end of next year. The government’s policy is to establish fisheries facilities in residential islands to provide direct benefits to local communities, the Minister said.