The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC), in partnership with Yanmar, has introduced the country’s first refrigerated seawater (RSW) system specialised for Maldivian fishing vessels.

The system was officially launched by Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam. The initiative aims to improve fish preservation, reduce operational costs, and ease challenges faced by fishermen, particularly the shortage of ice and high fuel expenses.

According to MTCC, the RSW system will help maintain consistent fish quality and boost fishermen’s earnings by improving storage efficiency. The Government has also facilitated foreign funding to ensure the project’s successful implementation.

In addition, loans are being issued to fishermen for the installation of RSW systems on their vessels. The Government plans to expand the initiative, with an additional 200 fishermen expected to receive loans for RSW installations before this year’s National Fisheries Day.

The launch event was attended by Yanmar Asia Singapore Corporation Limited Managing Director Jackson Tan, MTCC Managing Director Ahmed Saudee, MTCC Chairperson, Mohamed Afeef Hussain, GDh Atoll Council President and Gaafu Dhaalu Madaveli Council President.