Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam has said the Government is working to address long-standing concerns of fishermen and strengthen the fisheries sector through targeted infrastructure and policy reforms.

Speaking during a ceremony held to commence the land reclamation for a fish processing facility and harbour development in Gaafu Dhaalu Fiyoaree, Minister Shiyam said the Maldives is internationally recognised for having one of the world’s most sustainable fisheries and contributes to 50 per cent of the tuna caught by pole-and-line fishing to the world market. However, he noted that limitations in industry management have affected the country’s ability to maximise value from its fisheries resources. He said the current Administration is seeking to address these gaps through practical interventions.

The minister said increasing cold storage capacity is a key priority, noting that the Government is working to expand national cold storage from 9,500 tonnes to 25,000 tonnes. He said improved storage capacity would enhance the country’s ability to manage supply, reduce post-harvest losses and strengthen market positioning for Maldivian fish products.

Commenting on the Fiyoaree project, the minister said the facility is expected to benefit fishermen across the region by reducing operational costs, including the need to travel long distances to Kooddoo for fish unloading and processing. He said the project includes plans for a cold storage facility with significantly higher capacity of 3,000 tonnes than previously requested 500 tonnes by locals.

The minister said the Government aims to complete the land reclamation and harbour development works and bring the facility into operation by the end of next year. He added that the Administration’s policy focuses on establishing fisheries infrastructure in inhabited islands to ensure that economic benefits are delivered directly to local communities.