President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to listening to and addressing the needs of fishermen, following a meeting with members of the fishing community at the President’s Office this morning. It marked the third such meeting between President Muizzu and fishermen since he took office.
During the discussions, fishermen called for clarity on when the fish purchase price would be raised to MVR 20 per kilogramme, describing it as a pressing concern. They also pointed to a decline in the baitfish population, though Vaavu Atoll was noted as having better conditions for baitfishing compared with other areas. Additional issues raised included challenges in obtaining loans from the Bank of Maldives, difficulties in securing fishing licences, and requests to upgrade the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company’s weighing scales to digital models.
The fishermen acknowledged ongoing efforts by the Government to support the industry but urged further action to resolve long-standing challenges, particularly in relation to fishing operations and fish weighing in different parts of the country.
Responding to the concerns, President Muizzu said the increase in the fish purchase price would be implemented once the 48-hour payment system was fully stabilised. He pledged to work in close consultation with fishermen to ensure their voices continue to shape Government policies.
On loan accessibility, President Muizzu said the Bank of Maldives would be instructed to ease the loan application process by reducing documentation requirements. He also noted that land reclamation projects in Vaavu Atoll would move ahead in consultation with fishermen to reflect their views.
President Muizzu further announced that efforts to standardise fuel prices across all atolls with the State Trading Organisation’s rate were under way, with completion expected by March next year. He added that the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company was preparing to begin selling fuel as part of wider initiatives to support fishermen.
President Muizzu reaffirmed that addressing the challenges faced by fishermen remains a priority for his administration, alongside supporting the continued growth of the fishing industry.
