Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef has said that public trust is essential for development and progress, noting that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has placed strong emphasis on revitalising the fisheries sector as part of economic reforms.

The Vice President made the remarks while inaugurating the commencement of land reclamation works for a fish processing factory and harbour development project in Gaafu Dhaalu Fiyoaree. He said a number of development pledges made by the Government are now being realised across different regions, reflecting efforts to deliver on commitments outlined in the President’s manifesto to diversify the economy.

Addressing the gathering, the Vice President said the President’s electoral pledges were shaped by a long-term vision to reduce reliance on a single sector, particularly tourism, and to strengthen productive industries such as fisheries. He said lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the need for a more diversified and resilient economic model.

The Vice President said that upon assuming office, the Government faced significant economic challenges, requiring immediate efforts to stabilise and restore confidence. Despite these constraints, he said the Administration remains committed to fulfilling its pledges to the public, including reforms and investments aimed at strengthening the fisheries sector.

Referring to the Fiyoaree project, the Vice President said the decision to establish a fish processing facility on the island was taken in response to capacity limitations at existing facilities, including the Kooddoo complex, which is no longer sufficient to handle current catch volumes. He noted that the region has a strong tradition in pole-and-line fisheries, making it well suited for expanded processing operations.

The Vice President said the project is expected to create employment opportunities for residents across the atoll and serve as a catalyst for further development in the fisheries sector. He said youth participation is a key priority, adding that the Government aims to attract young people back into the industry by improving job security and encouraging investment in new fishing vessels.

He also noted that significant revisions were made to the project at the commencement stage, including an increase in cold storage capacity from 1,500 metric tonnes to 3,000 metric tonnes. Once completed, the facility is expected to process up to 100 tonnes of fish per day, with an associated fishmeal plant capable of producing 100 tonnes daily.

Highlighting the importance of confidence and cooperation, the Vice President said trust between the public, industry stakeholders and the Government is critical to strengthening the fisheries sector. He added that sustained investment in non-tourism sectors is necessary to ensure long-term economic growth and to deliver tangible benefits to communities across the Maldives.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam, Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib, and Member of Parliament for the Faresmaathodaa constituency Ashraf Rasheed, among other officials.