The Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources has revealed that the Government has installed 99 fish aggregating devices (FADs) across the Maldives over the past two and a half years.

The ministry stated that FADs play a key role in supporting the fishing industry by increasing fish catch efficiency and are in high demand among fishermen. It said the expansion of FAD deployment has been prioritised under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s policy to strengthen the fisheries sector.

Of the total, 47 FADs have been deployed for pole-and-line skipjack tuna fishing, while 52 FADs have been designated for recreational fishing, supporting the growth of the sport fishing sector.

The ministry said the installation of additional FADs is expected to improve productivity in the fisheries industry and support higher catch volumes nationwide.

It also noted that the Government is undertaking further measures to enhance fisheries infrastructure, including the development of saltwater storage facilities for fishing vessels.