President Dr Mohamed Muizzu tonight assured fishermen that his administration is delivering concrete reforms across the fisheries sector, including higher purchase prices, fuel cost relief, and nationwide infrastructure upgrades, as part of a strategy to re establish fisheries as the Maldives’ “bloodline” industry.
Speaking at the Fishermen’s Day reception, the President said fishermen’s concerns remain central to government decision making and that no issue raised by the fishing community would be dismissed as insignificant.
Higher Fish Prices and Faster Payments
President Muizzu announced a major change to MIFCO’s fish purchasing policy, confirming that from tomorrow, MIFCO will begin buying fish weighing 1 kilogram and above at the highest rate, with a minimum price of MVR 16.
He said MIFCO will pay higher rates when possible, citing examples of MVR 17 or MVR 18, depending on purchasing capacity. The President also reaffirmed his commitment to delivering the higher fish price pledged during the presidential election.
On payments, the President said strict monitoring is in place to ensure fishermen are paid promptly, including on public holidays, calling timely payment recognition of fishermen’s sacrifices at sea.
Fuel Relief and STO Rate Expansion
Fuel was identified as one of the most pressing concerns for fishermen. President Muizzu said the practical implementation of his pledge to provide fuel at STO rates in every atoll has begun, with STO fuel sales starting in Dhuvaafaru today through newly installed fuel facilities.
He said the rollout will accelerate across the country, with fuel stations to be established and completed in every atoll by the end of March, ensuring consistent and affordable fuel access for fishermen nationwide.
MIFCO Fuel Price Reductions Effective Tomorrow
The President announced immediate reductions in the average price of fuel sold by MIFCO to fishermen, effective tomorrow.
He said the average price will decrease by 51 laari, while fishermen selling more than three tons of fish to MIFCO will benefit from an average reduction of 71 laari. Under the new pricing, fuel will be sold at MVR 13.90 for fish sellers, MVR 13.72 for those selling over three tons, and MVR 14.43 for general parties.
The President said fishermen in the southern atolls, who on average use around 2,000 litres of fuel daily, could save approximately MVR 1,000 with the new rates.
Digital Weighing and Ice Capacity Improvements
President Muizzu highlighted digitalisation of fish weighing systems at Kooddoo, including the shift to digital cards and platforms, which he said will reduce wastage and inaccuracy while increasing fishermen’s earnings per kilogram.
He also outlined efforts to expand ice production and cold storage capacity, stating that these upgrades are critical to improving efficiency and reducing losses across the supply chain.
RSW Systems and Loan Support for Fishermen
The President said loans have already been issued for 35 fishing boats to install RSW systems, with the scheme now expanded to cover an additional 200 boats.
He said the expansion will significantly improve storage capacity at sea, increase quality, and raise returns for fishermen.
Bigeye Tuna Purchase and Sustainable Expansion
President Muizzu reaffirmed his pledge for MIFCO to begin purchasing bigeye tuna in a sustainable and uninterrupted manner.
He said preparatory work is underway at facilities in Hulhumale’ and Kandooigiri, with the government committed to implementing the initiative carefully to ensure long term viability rather than short lived gains.
National Fishermen Register and Access to Finance
The President highlighted the establishment of a national fishermen’s register, which provides legal recognition and simplifies access to various loan schemes.
He said fishermen can now apply in both Dhivehi and English for loans covering housing, boat construction and repair, education, and other needs, describing the system as a major improvement over past arrangements.
Call for Unity and Assurance on Pledges
Concluding his remarks, President Muizzu said all fisheries related pledges in the government’s manifesto will be fulfilled within his term, with remaining commitments delivered within the next three years.
He called on fishermen to work together without political division, stating that strengthening the fisheries sector is a national effort aimed at improving livelihoods, families, islands, and the Maldivian economy.
