More than 1.1 million litres of fuel have been made available to fishing vessels at reduced prices in recent days, as part of efforts to support the fisheries sector, Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam has said.

Speaking at a press briefing held by the special cabinet committee on Middle East tensions, minister Shiyam said the measure is intended to ensure continued operations in the sector amid current global conditions.

He said fuel has been supplied to 958 vessels so far, making it easier for fishing boats to operate and go out to sea. According to the minister, the largest volume of fuel was distributed through Kooddoo, followed by Addu.

The Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company is supplying diesel to fishing vessels at MVR 16.54 per litre, while the public price stands at MVR 17.54 per litre.

Minister Shiyam said the pricing support is part of broader measures to ease pressure on the fisheries sector.