Fishing has been the lifeline of Maldivian livelihood and economy, sustaining island communities for generations. With the rapid expansion of tourism in recent decades, the fisheries sector gradually receded from the forefront of national focus. Under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s Administration, however, fishing has once again been restored as a top national priority, with concrete measures introduced to ensure fishermen are supported and empowered.

At the outset, the Government moved to clear all outstanding payments owed to fishermen, a backlog left by the previous administration. To prevent such issues from recurring, a new mechanism was introduced to guarantee that payments for catch are made within 48 hours.

Fuel access, another long-standing concern, has been resolved with base-rate fuel now made available through STO and FSM outlets in Kaafu Himmafushi, Gaafu Alifu Kooddoo, Lhaviyani Felivaru, and Seenu Hulhumeedhoo. This has lowered operating costs and safeguarded uninterrupted fishing activity across key fishing hubs.

Employment formalisation has also been advanced through the introduction of the National Fishermen’s Register. Although mandated by the 2019 Fisheries Act, the registry had never been implemented until now. For the first time, fishermen are formally recognised at a national level, allowing them to access loans and benefit directly from Government support programmes.

In parallel, a training programme was launched to certify at least one crew member on every vessel as a rescue diver. Many divers have already been trained, strengthening both safety and professionalism within the sector. Alongside this, the Maldives National University’s College for Fisheries and Ocean Sciences continues to play a key role, offering full scholarships for 45 students annually in fisheries management, with further specialised training opportunities planned.

Financial and technological support has been widened through a dedicated financing facility for Refrigerated Sea Water (RSW) systems. Adoption of RSW has allowed vessels to cut back on costly ice runs, reduce fuel consumption, and boost incomes for fishermen.

Direct engagement with the fishing community has been central to policy formulation. President Dr Muizzu has personally held meetings with fishermen at the President’s Office to hear their concerns first-hand. Among the key issues raised was the need for additional Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs). Responding to these requests, the Administration expanded the nationwide total to over 100, strengthening opportunities for both commercial tuna fishing and recreational activities.

Through these initiatives, the Government has shown a clear commitment to reviving the fisheries sector and placing it once again at the heart of Maldivian livelihoods. Fishing, once overshadowed by tourism, is being restored to its rightful place as one the pillars of the national economy.