For the first time, Maldivian fishermen have received payments within 48 hours, with MVR 2,045,823.37 deposited on 8 December.

This achievement comes in the wake of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's commitment to resolving payment delays in the fisheries sector, marking a significant step forward on National Fishermen's Day.

Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam announced the payment, highlighting it as the first disbursement after clearing overdue amounts on 7 December. This milestone underscores the Government's dedication to addressing sectoral challenges and delivering on promises to the fishing community.

Over the past two weeks, MVR 38 million has been disbursed—MVR 32.4 million to Bank of Maldives (BML) accounts and MVR 5.6 million to Maldives Islamic Bank (MIB) accounts—under a new agreement ensuring payments within 48 hours of catch weighing.

Efforts are underway to extend this system to MIB accounts. Additional reforms, such as fuel access at STO rates and plans to expand fish storage and processing facilities, reflect the Administration’s commitment to revitalising the fishing industry and ensuring its sustainable growth.