The Maldives has established itself as a formidable voice in shaping international fisheries policy, according to Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam, who emphasised the nation's growing global influence.
During a recent appearance on PSM's Raajje Miadhu programme, the Minister underscored that Maldives plays a significant role in determining world fisheries policy and actively participates in key international forums that directly impact the nation's economic interests.
"The voice of Maldives is very strong in the world, especially in fisheries politics," Minister Shiyam said, highlighting that maintaining robust diplomatic relations with countries that impose high tariffs remains essential for securing fair prices for Maldivian fish in global markets.
The Minister explained that the increased activity of these international platforms reflects their critical importance in advancing the economic interests of Maldivian fishers and ensuring sustainable returns from the nation's fisheries sector.
The Minister's remarks are substantiated by Maldives' successful hosting of the 30th meeting of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission, which drew around 250 participants from various countries earlier this month. This achievement holds particular significance as Maldives assumed the chairmanship of the meeting, demonstrating the international community's recognition of the nation's commitment to fisheries management. Of the seven proposals deliberated during the conference, three originated from Maldivian initiatives and successfully passed, a testament to the country's diplomatic effectiveness and technical expertise in fisheries governance.
"This achievement has given us a huge boost to all our efforts, including the fishing industry," Minister Shiyam remarked, emphasising that Maldives cannot passively wait while global fisheries policies are determined.
Instead, active participation ensures that the nation's interests, including its quota allocations in the Indian Ocean, receive proper consideration. The Minister confirmed that with government leadership and direct support from President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, Maldives successfully secured its quota position, marking a crucial decision for the development of the nation's yellowfin tuna fishery.
In separate developments, Minister Shiyam announced plans to enhance domestic fisheries infrastructure and accessibility during a public rally in Addu City. The Minister revealed that a dedicated MIFCO shop will open in the connected islands of Addu City within the coming days, responding to requests made by residents during President Muizzu's visit to the city.
While some MIFCO products, including canned tuna, smoked tuna, and rihaakuru, have already been available through the Hulhumeedhoo ice plant, the new shop aims to make these products more readily accessible to the broader population of Addu City.
Addressing longstanding concerns from local fishermen regarding fuel access, the Minister announced that fuel services at Gan have been extended and will now operate until 10:00 pm, resolving previous limitations that saw services suspended at 4:00 pm.
Additionally, Minister Shiyam indicated plans to establish an STO fuel shed near the Hithadhoo ice plant, pending allocation of appropriate land from the city council. This initiative directly responds to the challenges fishermen face navigating Addu City's expansive geography to reach fuel facilities in Gan, promising meaningful improvements for the city's fishing community.