Operations have commenced at Kanduohgiri, with the facility beginning the purchase of yellowfin tuna at a rate of MVR 25 per kilogram.
Ahmed Shiyam, the Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, described the start of operations as a positive development for the fisheries sector and referred to the government’s view of the industry as a priority area. He also referred to sustainability as a key consideration in new initiatives and outlined efforts aimed at supporting both skipjack and yellowfin fishermen.
Prior to the commencement of operations at Kanduohgiri, yellowfin tuna was sold primarily to private companies. The opening of the facility marks a change in procurement arrangements, although some fishermen have said that earlier commitments made to the sector have yet to be fulfilled.
Yellowfin fishermen have called on the state-owned Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company to begin purchasing yellowfin tuna, introduce higher minimum prices, supply fuel at base rates, and ensure easier access to ice.
These demands led to a protest near Malé, during which nine individuals, including Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir, were arrested.
