The Maldives needs to explore new markets and expand its fish products in order to develop the country’s fisheries sector, says Ahmed Siyam Mohamed, the president of Maldives Development Alliance (MDA) and the parliamentary representative for Dh. Meedhoo constituency.
He made the remarks in an address on Wednesday on occasion of the 45th Fishermen’s Day.
In his address, Siyam noted that fishing is a source of livelihood to many Maldivian families.
He urged all relevant authorities and stakeholders to listen to the concerns of fishermen and work to address them.
“Today, the most pressing challenge facing Maldivian fishermen is the difficulty in selling their catch, and the lack of fair price for their catch. It is imperative that a quick solution is found to these two critical solutions for the sustainable development of the fisheries sector,” he said.
Siyam specifically pointed out the challenges that yellowfin tuna fishermen continue to face, and urged authorities to address the difficulties they face in selling their catch and getting timely payments.
He urged all relevant authorities to work towards the goal of making Maldivian fish products the most valuable in the global market.
“I urge everyone to work hard to explore new markets, expand fish products, and make Maldivian products the most valuable in the global market in order to develop the fisheries sector,” he said.
Siyam congratulated the hardworking and persevering fishermen of the country and all fisheries sector stakeholders.