The Government has introduced arrangements to provide fuel at a reduced rate to all fishing vessels across the Maldives.

The Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources stated that, starting from Wednesday, fishermen will be able to obtain fuel at lower prices from all Fuel Supply Maldives (FSM) sheds established across both northern and southern regions of the country.

The initiative comes as global fuel prices continue to rise due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East. The Government said it is undertaking several measures to minimise the impact on Maldivian fishermen.

The Government had already begun supplying diesel at reduced rates to fishing vessels. Since March, fuel has been made available at lower prices through FSM and Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO) facilities in Hulhumalé, Kaafu Himmafushi, Lhaviyani Felivaru, Gaafu Alifu Kooddoo and Seenu Hulhudhoo.

The Ministry stated that the programme has been further expanded, allowing fishermen in additional islands to access fuel at reduced rates through FSM skids.

Under the expansion, discounted fuel will now be available in Haa Alifu Ihavandhoo, Haa Dhaalu Hanimaadhoo, Shaviyani Milandhoo, Baa Eydhafushi, Faafu Nilandhoo, Raa Dhuvaafaru, Kaafu Himmafushi, Lhaviyani Felivaru, Gaafu Alifu Kooddoo, and Hulhumalé Jetty, bringing the total number of locations to 13 islands.

To obtain fuel under this scheme, fishermen are required to present a copy of their fishing licence along with their most recent fish sales receipt.

The quantity of fuel allocated depends on the size of the vessel and type of fishing activity.

For tuna fishing vessels per trip:

For other large fishing operations per trip:

The Government expressed confidence that these measures will support fishermen in continuing their operations during the current fishing season and contribute to sustaining the fisheries sector.