The Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources has announced that fuel for fishing vessels will now be available in Meedhoo, Dhaalu Atoll, marking a significant expansion of the government’s subsidised fuel scheme.
The move comes amid a sharp increase in global oil prices driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has put pressure on operating costs for the Maldives’ vital fishing industry.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration has made the stability of the fishing sector a top priority, unveiling a series of measures to ensure fishermen can access affordable fuel despite the volatile market. Previously, subsidised fuel was distributed through four designated points—the government has now added ten new distribution sites, with Meedhoo becoming the latest island in Dhaalu Atoll to receive supply.
Under the programme, vessels longer than 85 feet are allocated up to 5,000 litres of fuel, while boats between 50 feet and 85 feet receive 3,000 litres through the state‑run Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO). Smaller vessels, under 50 feet, are eligible for 1,500 litres. The Ministry revealed that it has already released more than 2.5 million litres of subsidised fuel to date, aiming to curb the rise in operational costs for fishermen.
Currently, fuel is supplied to all atolls except Raa and Thaa, where distribution is still in the planning stage. The Ministry emphasised that the expansion will significantly reduce fishing operating costs and improve returns for the islands’ fishing communities, especially as the country navigates the challenges presented by the sharply rising global oil market.