Maldives Industrial Fishing Company (MIFCO) has announced plans to distribute a 48-can case of canned tuna to every household in the country this Ramadan, following through on President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s commitment. Earlier this year, the President declared that the government would ensure the provision of tuna cans during Ramadan, a staple in many Maldivian households.
MIFCO is proactively gearing up to meet this promise. Speaking with PSM News, the company confirmed the distribution plan, noting that while they typically produce around 100,000 cans for Ramadan each year, the President’s directive has driven them to significantly boost production efforts.
The initiative is being coordinated in partnership with the State Trading Organisation (STO). Production is anticipated to conclude next month, with distribution scheduled to begin shortly after. The specifics of the distribution process are currently being finalized.
Last year, the government distributed essential foods to 82,000 households across the Maldives. This year, however, the focus shifts to canned fish, a popular choice during Ramadan. With canned tuna priced at MVR 16 per can in the local market, the total cost per household amounts to MVR 768. Consequently, the government’s expenditure for this initiative is projected to exceed MVR 62.9 million for 82,000 households.
In addition to food distribution efforts, last Ramadan saw the government providing significant discounts on water and electricity bills, amounting to a total of MVR 142 million. President Muizzu has affirmed that these discounts will continue in the upcoming Ramadan season.
