Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam has confirmed that the cold storage facilities under construction in Felivaru and Thinadhoo will be completed and operational before the end of this year.
In an interview with PSM News, Minister Shiyam emphasized that one of the most pressing challenges facing the Maldivian fishing industry is the lack of adequate cold storage capacity. He stated that this shortage hampers the ability to maintain consistent fish exports and affects the prices fishermen receive for their catch.
"The government is actively addressing this challenge by establishing cold storage facilities in key regions. Work is progressing rapidly in Thinadhoo, and we are working closely with the contractor to accelerate progress in Felivaru as well," Shiyam noted.
The Minister also revealed that a Saudi company has been contracted to construct a new cold storage facility in M. Mulaku under a Saudi-funded initiative.
According to Minister Shiyam, the government aims to increase the national fish storage capacity by 15,500 tons during this term, which would bring the total capacity across the country to 25,000 tons. This expansion is expected to enable fishermen to better meet international market demands and secure fair prices for their catch.
The initiative aligns with broader efforts to enhance infrastructure in the fisheries sector and improve economic outcomes for fishing communities nationwide.