Fishing vessels in Fuvahmulah City can now sell their catch directly at the harbour, following the start of official purchasing operations on Saturday. The move is expected to ease longstanding challenges for local fishermen and bring greater returns from one of the nation’s richest fishing grounds.
The launch was marked by the arrival of the vessel “Ran’dhi 19,” which has a capacity of 36 metric tonnes and will remain stationed in the city to provide continuous purchasing services. For the first time, fishermen in Fuvahmulah have a permanent buyer at their harbour, reducing delays and improving income stability.
The initiative is being spearheaded by the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company Limited (MIFCO), whose CEO Brigadier General (Retired) Farhath Shaheer announced the start of operations earlier this week. Alongside the harbour purchases, MIFCO has also begun construction of a new fish processing facility in the city, scheduled for completion before the end of the year. Once operational, the facility will allow for processing and safe packaging of fish products for local distribution, ensuring added value for the catch.
The Fuvahmulah initiative forms part of MIFCO’s broader expansion across the country. This includes urgent repairs at the Felivaru Cannery, upgrades to the Kooddoo Fisheries Complex, plans for direct exports from Addu City, and the opening of a new fish purchase centre in Thinadhoo by 2026. The company also intends to expand its purchasing of yellowfin tuna from both northern and southern regions later this year.
Together, these efforts aim to overcome long-standing obstacles such as inadequate cold storage and processing facilities, enhancing both profitability and sustainability for the Maldivian fishing industry.
