The government has issued MVR 1.6 billion in payments to fishermen across the Maldives since mid-November last year, according to Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam. The announcement was made at a public event organised by the People’s National Congress (PNC), where the minister provided an update on efforts to fulfil key presidential pledges to the fishing community.
When President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu assumed office in November 2024, the administration reportedly inherited outstanding payments of over MVR 250 million owed to fishermen. These dues have since been cleared, as part of the government’s broader initiative to streamline the fisheries sector and ensure timely compensation for fishers.
Since December 2024, the government has also introduced a system to disburse payments within 48 hours of weighing the catch—a policy that aligns with one of President Muizzu’s electoral promises. This rapid payment scheme has reportedly been operational since last year’s Fishermen’s Day and is being maintained to improve cash flow and economic security for those in the sector.
The Fisheries Ministry disclosed that over MVR 500 million has been paid under the new payment timeline alone, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to supporting the livelihoods of the nation’s fishing communities.
